The Moon Brightens for You Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Moon Brightens for You Synopsis
A young girl, Zhan Qinghong, is ordered by her father to go down the mountains to participate in a martial arts tournament with the aim of winning the position of martial arts leader.
By chance, she befriends Lin Fang, the "most beautiful man in the Great Xiao", and Wen You, the son of a royal family.
The three of them participate in a martial arts tournament together. With the help of Zhan Qinghong, Lin Fang, who has no martial arts skills, wins the top prize in the tournament.
So she receives Lin Fang's favor, and at the same time, Wen You also falls in love with her. The three of them embark on a journey together to reorganize the martial arts world in Jiangdong.
Lin Fang is brave and resourceful, with his wisdom and the protection of Zhang Qinghong and Wen You, they gradually stop the fighting in the martial arts world.
During this period, the three of them have not only experienced the deceitfulness of Jianghu, but also have to face the great changes of life and death. They grow up gradually.
In the course of their struggle to uphold the righteousness of the world, they come to realize their own hearts and reap the benefits of love.
The Moon Brightens for You Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Ten years ago, a fierce and decisive battle raged at the border between the Xiao Empire and the Yan Kingdom. The Xiao Empire's elite forces were ambushed and faced dire peril from the Yan Kingdom's powerful ballista, which decimated their shield formations and caused heavy casualties. In this critical moment, Lin Xiaotian, the Wulin Alliance Leader, led many masters from Jiangdong to reinforce the Xiao army, single-handedly turning the tide of the war.
Following the devastating conflict, both nations were severely weakened and declared a ceasefire. However, soon after, news of Lin Xiaotian's sudden death spread, giving rise to rumors of foul play and leaving the prestigious position of Wulin Alliance Leader vacant.
After a decade, the decennial Wulin assembly is set to convene at Luoyan Peak in Jun'an City to select a new leader who will inherit the highly coveted Seven-star swordsmanship, the very technique Lin Xiaotian used to behead an enemy general in battle. Amidst the martial world's buzz, a storyteller at a market stall mentioned the newly released Wulin Beauty list, highlighting Lin Fang, Lin Xiaotian's son, as the most handsome man in Wulin and the entire Xiao Empire.
A young woman, Zhan Qinghong, boldly declared that her own mother was the most beautiful woman in the world. Zhan Qinghong, a spirited and mischievous young woman from the Zhan Family Manor in Jingzhou, was known for her playful antics. Her eldest martial brother often had to rein her in, while her younger martial brothers frequently bore the brunt of her pranks, such as being tied up in a tree.
Her father, Zhan Podi, once the deputy leader of the Wulin Alliance, had long retired to a secluded life with his wife, Su Qianhong. He confronted Zhan Qinghong about her latest misdeed: eating valuable snow jade shrimp, red-spotted grouper, and even her mother's special iced orchid, a birthday gift he had brought from the Western regions.
Although her martial brothers admitted to sharing some of the food, they quickly pointed out that Zhan Qinghong herself had devoured nine snow jade shrimps. Despite his exasperation, Zhan Podi decided it was time for Zhan Qinghong to venture out. He unexpectedly passed on the Zhan Family leader token to her, making her the new leader and tasking her with representing the Zhans at the upcoming Wulin assembly.
He explained that his retirement was to pursue his love for Su Qianhong, which had earned him the ire of many younger martial artists. He emphasized that the main goal wasn't to win the leadership but to gain experience, forge friendships, and showcase the Zhan family's enduring strength.
Her mother, Su Qianhong, also gave Zhan Qinghong a family heirloom: a golden silk armor, jokingly reminding her of a hole she burned in it at age seven and advising her to wear it inside out. He concluded with a stern warning that if she caused any trouble outside, she should not claim affiliation with the Zhan family. Zhan Qinghong, accompanied by her maid Xiao Lan, journeyed to Jun'an City.
Upon arrival, they were immediately captivated by the city's vibrant streets, which far surpassed their rural markets. They overheard gossip about the Heart Warming Pearl, a legendary treasure said to prolong life, preserve youth, and enhance martial arts. It was currently with the Zheng family after one of their members had foolishly pawned it.
They also learned that Feng Bufei, one of the notorious "three demons in the nether world" renowned for his exceptional lightness skill and thievery, had issued an "order to steal the treasure" for the pearl. Zhan Qinghong, brimming with ambition, saw this as a golden opportunity to make a name for herself by defeating Feng Bufei and returning the pearl, a plan Xiao Lan regarded with skepticism.
They then checked into the Tongfu Inn, which they quickly realized was an overpriced "black inn," but Zhan Qinghong, unfazed, was eager to proceed to their next objective: catching a glimpse of the famously handsome Lin Fang. Lin Fang's appearance in public always drew immense crowds of adoring fans who showered him with flowers and cheers. To get a better view, Zhan Qinghong used her "Jinghong Lueying" lightness skill to ascend to a high point.
Although she didn't get a clear look, Lin Fang, from inside his carriage, noticed her distinctive Zhan family lightness technique. Xiao Lan, meanwhile, was completely infatuated after catching a glimpse of Lin Fang's face. Zhan Qinghong, slightly annoyed at her missed opportunity, followed his carriage to the Gao family residence.
Lin Fang, a guest at a banquet in the Gao family's South Yard, had arrived with a retinue of guards, a precaution taken by his adopted father, General Xiahou Ying, who feared Feng Bufei's threat to capture Lin Fang. Lin Fang, however, found the extensive security unnecessary, though his servant Dongxue fretted over his delicate health.
Excusing himself for some fresh air in the garden, Lin Fang coincidentally encountered Zhan Qinghong, who had scaled a wall to avoid the Gao family's servants searching for him. Unaware of his true identity, she mistook him for another person sneaking in to see Lin Fang. After a brief exchange, Zhan Qinghong decided it was a "bad start" and abandoned her quest for the day.
As she departed, she accidentally dropped her Zhan Family leader token, which Lin Fang promptly retrieved. Later, a mysterious figure behind his bed curtains identified the girl as Zhan Qinghong, daughter of Zhan Podi. That night, Lin Fang was haunted by a recurring nightmare from ten years prior, reliving the moment his father, Lin Xiaotian, was murdered. He remembered crying helplessly as a child, unable to discern his father's dying words. This unresolved trauma had plagued him for a decade.
Lin Fang mused that the reappearance of Zhan Podi, who had vanished from the martial world for years, was highly significant. He believed that even if Zhan Podi wasn't the direct killer, he must possess vital information about the events surrounding his father's death. Holding Zhan Qinghong's dropped leader token, Lin Fang found her to be "an interesting person."
He instructed the mysterious figure to investigate Zhan Podi's whereabouts, intending to use the token's return as a pretext to get closer to Zhan Qinghong and uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Zhan Qinghong, having decided against further attempts to see Lin Fang, was determined to "join the fun" at the Zheng family residence, hoping to make a name for herself by intercepting Feng Bufei.
She infiltrated the Zheng family's compound, where she witnessed Feng Bufei attempting to steal the Heart Warming Pearl. He was confronted by Shen Yanzhi, who brazenly utilized poison in her attack. As their fight reached a stalemate, General Xiahou Ying arrived with his soldiers. General Xiahou Ying criticized Feng Bufei's martial arts as "miscellaneous but not precise," declaring that his varied skills were insufficient to defeat him.
Overwhelmed and nearly captured, Feng Bufei lost his grip on the Heart Warming Pearl. Zhan Qinghong, executing a high jump, deftly caught the pearl. Someone among the onlookers recognized her, shouting, "Zhan Qinghong, from the Zhans in Jingzhou!" Defeated, Feng Bufei fled, but then, realizing Zhan Qinghong now possessed the Heart Warming Pearl, he proclaimed, "There's nothing I can't get," and immediately pursued her to reclaim it. As Zhan Qinghong attempted to evade Feng Bufei, Wen You suddenly appeared, accidentally striking her on the chest. Indignant, Zhan Qinghong exclaimed, "You rascal!"
Episode 2 Recap
Wen You pursued Feng Bufei, who proudly claimed there was nothing he couldn't acquire. When Wen You demanded the Wuji Sword Manual, a secret scripture of his clan, Feng Bufei dared him to retrieve it. Concurrently, Zhan Qinghong returned to the inn, still fuming over a recent humiliation, intensified by her resentment towards Wen You over an earlier, unintentional encounter. Her maid, Xiao Lan, excitedly asked if she had "robbed" the heart warming pearl.
Zhan Qinghong corrected her, stating she had merely "found" it. Though Xiao Lan wondered if it truly offered beauty-enhancing properties, Zhan Qinghong dismissed it as just "a cheap pearl," regretting she had even bothered to get it, claiming it only made her tired. That night, she recalled her mother's past advice to avoid recklessness, run from stronger opponents, and most importantly, never let a boy touch her. The memory of these words kept her awake, fueled by her anger.
On her journey home, Wen Rou, the young daughter of the Wen family, was attacked by bandits. The bandits, who brazenly declared they were after the official's family, initially mistook Wen Rou's blue carriage for the green carriage of Assistant Minister Gao's daughter, their true target. Realizing their mistake, the furious bandit leader, who admitted to color blindness, ordered his men to take Wen Rou to their White Tiger Clan stronghold.
A guard from the Wen household, who survived the attack by feigning death, reported the incident, mentioning the bandits' intention to return to their "clan" and suggesting their hideout was likely in the western suburbs. Upon hearing the news, Mr. Wen immediately sought help from General Xiahou Ying. General Xiahou reassured him and questioned the wounded guard.
Observing the guard's severe twitching, Xiahou Ying examined him and confirmed he had been struck by the potent Reverting Yin palm, a clear sign of the assailants' deadly skill. Xiahou Ying promised Mr. Wen he would track down the villains and rescue Wen Rou. To locate the rightful owner of the heart warming pearl, Zhan Qinghong utilized the popular "Wulin Rumors" platform to issue a lost and found notice.
However, the announcer exaggerated the tale, claiming that Zhan Qinghong, a girl from the Zhan family in Jingzhou, had "unexpectedly" acquired the pearl, despite her protests that he was speaking nonsense. This public announcement led to her immediate recognition by the crowd, who, eager to claim the pearl for themselves, surged towards her. Just as she was about to be overwhelmed, Wen You appeared and helped her escape. Despite his assistance, Zhan Qinghong remained resentful over their previous encounter.
She demanded an apology, which Wen You gave, but she deemed it insincere. Xiao Lan, misunderstanding the situation, offered to retaliate for Zhan Qinghong, but Zhan Qinghong silenced her. Before parting ways, Zhan Qinghong issued a fierce warning to Wen You, vowing not to forget his actions. Returning to the inn, Zhan Qinghong was surprised to find her room completely redecorated with new furnishings and neatly arranged cosmetics.
Her maid, Xiao Lan, expressed concerns about how these unknown individuals knew their location and if they were being blackmailed. Soon after, two maids, Wanqing and Dongxue, introduced themselves as Lin Fang's servants, stating he had sent the items and a token, inviting Zhan Qinghong to a meeting. Zhan Qinghong accepted, making her way to his separate villa, where she immediately recognized Lin Fang as the man she had previously encountered.
She recounted how his guards had chased her because Feng Bufei had targeted Lin Fang, explaining her earlier misunderstanding. During their conversation, Lin Fang cautiously inquired about her father, Zhan Podi, and his current situation. Zhan Qinghong, unaware of his true intentions, innocently explained that her father, a former deputy director of Wulin, retired for her mother, the most beautiful woman in Wulin, and was now afraid of being hunted by old enemies.
Lin Fang then experienced a sudden flare-up of a chronic illness, causing him to convulse. Wanqing and Dongxue quickly assisted him, explaining that he relied on Five-stone infusion (which Zhan Qinghong's father had called poison) to manage his condition. They clarified that the Five-stone infusion, despite its reputation, could treat deep-seated internal ailments.
Zhan Qinghong, having heard rumors from "Wulin Rumors," confirmed that Lin Fang truly possessed no internal martial arts, as his meridians had been severed by a cold internal force injury. Moved by Lin Fang's plight, Zhan Qinghong generously offered him the heart warming pearl, believing it could fully heal his internal injuries and free him from relying on Five-stone infusion.
Lin Fang, after a moment of hesitation, politely declined her offer, stating that since she had acquired the pearl, it was hers to keep. He also advised her to guard it carefully and not display it easily, warning of potential trouble. Zhan Qinghong, witnessing the severity of his illness yet his unwavering determination to attend the Wulin assembly, questioned his resolve.
Lin Fang explained that as a descendant of the Lin family, whose father was a former Wulin director, it was his duty to participate, even without martial arts, to affirm his clan's continued presence in the martial world. Touched by his commitment, Zhan Qinghong declared that they should attend together, and she would protect him. Lin Fang quietly thanked her.
Gu Yue, the acting leader of the Wulin, urged his son, Gu Yan, to intensify his sword practice, emphasizing the importance of mastering techniques from various schools. Gu Yue openly expressed his ambition for Gu Yan to achieve great fame at the upcoming Wulin assembly and secure the position of Wulin director, to which Gu Yan pledged his unwavering dedication. Despite presenting a facade of righteousness, Gu Yue harbored hidden agendas.
He questioned Gu Yan about Lin Fang's true loyalty, concerned by rumors that he had adopted Lin Fang merely to control the Lin family's assets and gain influence. Gu Yan, however, assured his father that Lin Fang was trustworthy and that he would not be swayed by such gossip, especially with the Wulin assembly approaching. While walking with Zhan Qinghong, Xiao Lan excitedly chattered about Lin Fang.
However, their attention shifted when Zhan Qinghong spotted Wen You at a noodle stall. Seizing the opportunity, she discreetly slipped some "soft muscle powder" into his noodles. She explained to a surprised Xiao Lan that it wasn't a potent poison but would simply render him weak and unable to use his martial arts for a couple of hours.
Shortly after, Wen You received urgent news via a messenger: his sister, Wen Rou, had been abducted by the White Tiger Clan and taken to their stronghold in the western suburbs. Despite the messenger's attempts to hold him back, Wen You immediately left alone to rescue her. Unbeknownst to him, Zhan Qinghong followed.
Meanwhile, within the White Tiger Clan's lair, the bandits discussed the implications of having accidentally captured the Wen family daughter instead of Assistant Minister Gao's daughter, worrying about General Xiahou's involvement. Wen You and Zhan Qinghong infiltrated the stronghold. Wen You soon realized he couldn't exert his strength, confronting Zhan Qinghong about the soft muscle powder she had given him. Zhan Qinghong apologized, explaining its non-lethal nature and limited duration.
Inside, Wen Rou confirmed that the bandits had intended to kidnap Assistant Minister Gao's daughter but mistakenly took her. Wen You promised his sister and the other captured officials' families that he would rescue them. Wen Rou noted that the White Tiger Clan had confiscated her silver needles, leaving Wen You to rely on his internal energy to expel the poison. Zhan Qinghong added that the powder's effects were temporary and would soon wear off.
However, due to the soft muscle powder and the overwhelming numbers of bandits, both Wen You and Zhan Qinghong were eventually captured. Concurrently, Feng Bufei ambushed Lin Fang and abducted him to a secluded mountain cave brimming with secret martial arts manuals and glittering treasures. Inside, Lin Fang recognized the Wuji Sword Manual and other renowned scriptures like Xuanyang Divine Art and Qingyun Illusory Flame.
However, he was dismayed to discover that all the treasured manuals were incomplete, possessing only the upper half. Feng Bufei explained his peculiar philosophy: he destroyed the latter halves to ensure that only he could comprehend and master them, thus making his collection truly unique and him, a unique individual. Then, revealing a disturbing intent, Feng Bufei, who had confirmed Lin Fang was an only child, announced his plan to transform Lin Fang into a doll.
He instructed Lin Fang to choose his favorite jewelry for decoration, implying he admired Lin Fang's physique. Horrified, Lin Fang tried to flee, but Feng Bufei swiftly acupunctured him, rendering him immobile. With many official family members held captive, some White Tiger Clan bandits grew concerned about the potential for further trouble, suggesting to their leader that they should avoid escalating the situation.
Inside the prison, Wen Rou, who possessed medical knowledge, advised Wen You on how to use his internal energy to counteract the soft muscle powder's effects, noting that its influence would soon dissipate. The bandit leader, however, was more interested in Zhan Qinghong, having learned that she possessed the heart warming pearl. When he demanded its return, Zhan Qinghong defiantly claimed she had swallowed it.
The bandit leader, enraged but undeterred, declared that since the pearl was now in her blood, she had become a "human ingredient" herself. Ignoring her protests and attempts to reason, he ordered his men to take her to a mountain cave, intending to drain her blood, along with other captives, to refine a potent new medicine. As she was dragged away, Zhan Qinghong desperately cried out.
Episode 3 Recap
In a secret chamber, Lin Fang discovered the first part of the "Secrets of making puppets" and mused about needing the heart warming pearl to create a unique doll. Nearby, Zhan Qinghong’s cries for help echoed through a stone wall, alerting Lin Fang to her peril. He seized the opportunity to manipulate Feng Bufei, who was also seeking the pearl.
Lin Fang subtly informed Feng Bufei that Zhan Qinghong possessed the pearl and was being pursued, prompting Feng Bufei to rush to her location. When Feng Bufei arrived, he found Zhan Qinghong captured by a White Tiger Clan bandit. Zhan Qinghong, quick-witted, provoked Feng Bufei and the bandit against each other. She claimed she was about to give the heart warming pearl to Feng Bufei when the bandit intervened, while the bandit insisted she had swallowed it.
Convinced the bandit was lying, Feng Bufei, infuriated by being called "Feng Laosan," easily killed the White Tiger Clan leader. Zhan Qinghong then offered to reveal the pearl's location if untied, deliberately misleading Feng Bufei. She tried to escape, showcasing impressive light-body skills that Feng Bufei acknowledged, though he was unfamiliar with her purported sect, the Huzhou Jiashan Clan.
As Feng Bufei relentlessly pursued her, taunting her about his age and fondness for dolls, General Xiahou Ying arrived and confronted Feng Bufei about his crimes. Zhan Qinghong watched the duel between the two masters with excitement, calling it a display of "real master" skills. During the intense fight, the internal energy from the combatants caused a stone wall to rupture, sending Zhan Qinghong tumbling into Lin Fang's secret chamber.
She discovered the heart warming pearl there and then helped Lin Fang, who had been immobilized. Lin Fang jokingly called himself the "doll Feng Bufei wants to make" and praised Zhan Qinghong's knack for turning misfortune into good fortune. As Feng Bufei, outmatched, fled, Zhan Qinghong found the "Wuji cryptic" amongst other partial martial arts manuals. She quickly took it, intending to give it to Wen You.
General Xiahou Ying found the dead bandit bore the mark of the "Reverting Yin palm," the same technique that had injured Wen's guards. Lin Fang inquired if Feng Bufei was the one who had wounded him years ago, but Xiahou Ying clarified that the previous attacker's martial arts and inner power were far superior to Feng Bufei's crude style. Nonetheless, the reappearance of the Reverting Yin palm offered a new lead.
Lin Fang instructed Xiahou Ying to investigate discreetly to avoid alerting their true enemies and to prioritize the safety of the upcoming Wulin assembly. They also noticed figures from Xiyan (Western Flame) and stressed the importance of secrecy regarding their presence. Meanwhile, Wen You, despite still recovering, bravely fought off more White Tiger Clan members, as his sister, Wen Rou, ensured other hostages remained hidden. Wen You and Zhan Qinghong reunited, both relieved and reassuring each other of their well-being.
Lin Fang arrived, and Zhan Qinghong introduced him, but realized she didn't know Wen You's full name. Wen You introduced himself, and then General Xiahou Ying arrived. Wen You expressed his gratitude and introduced himself as the son of Wen Qiao, the Prince's official. Xiahou Ying recognized Wen Qiao and commended Wen You's composure. Zhan Qinghong was surprised by Wen You's prominent family background.
Xiahou Ying then revealed his own history, identifying himself as Zhan Qinghong's martial uncle and the man who had loved her mother, Su Qianhong, only to be supplanted by her father, Zhan Podi. He also recounted how, after leaving his sect, he was saved from an ambush by Lin Fang's father, Lin Xiaotian. The atmosphere became awkward until an apparently dead bandit suddenly attacked Wen Rou. Xiahou Ying swiftly intervened, saving her and leaving Wen Rou visibly impressed.
Xiahou Ying then directed his soldiers to apprehend the remaining bandits, ensure all hostages were safe, and send everyone home, specifically instructing that Lin Fang be taken to Gu Fort. Lin Fang departed with General Xiahou Ying, while Zhan Qinghong chose to accompany Wen You and Wen Rou down the mountain.
Zhan Qinghong gave Wen You the Wuji cryptic she found, and they shared a moment as she playfully etched the character "You" from his name onto his palm, a tender interaction that Wen Rou observed with knowing discretion. Back at Wen Manor, Wen You and Wen Rou were reunited with their parents.
Their father, Wen Qiao, a traditional scholar, was stern; he disapproved of his son's involvement in the martial arts world and his daughter's public activities, lamenting their unconventional paths. That night, Wen You found himself sleepless, his mind filled with thoughts of Zhan Qinghong, experiencing the stirrings of first love. At Gu Fort, Lin Fang proposed hosting a pre-Wulin assembly banquet to Gu Yan and Lord Gu, intending to foster goodwill among the martial arts community.
He also expressed a desire to see Zhan Qinghong again, suggesting inviting her as the Zhan family were old acquaintances. Lord Gu agreed, and Lin Fang penned the invitation. Xiao Lan delivered the invitation to Zhan Qinghong, who wondered about Lin Fang's motives, given his sickly disposition and lack of martial arts skill. Xiao Lan playfully suggested Lin Fang was pursuing Zhan Qinghong and tried to tag along to meet him.
Later, at the bustling Gu Fort, clan leaders and martial artists gathered. Zhan Qinghong arrived with Xiao Lan and was greeted by Gu Yan. She paid her respects to Lord Gu, who praised her composure and asked if her father, Zhan Podi, had also come, noting their long separation. Zhan Qinghong informed him she had come alone.
As the banquet commenced, Lord Gu spoke of the future of Wulin resting on young talents like Zhan Qinghong, Su Batian, and his son Gu Yan. Suddenly, Su Batian, a formidable warrior known as "Yuji warriors" from Liaodong, publicly shamed Zhan Qinghong, calling her father, Zhan Podi, a treacherous deserter who abandoned the Wulin director on the battlefield. Enraged, Zhan Qinghong defiantly challenged Su Batian to a duel, demanding an apology for her family if she won.
Su Batian scornfully dismissed her, but she lunged into combat. Zhan Qinghong, skilled in light-body techniques, was outmatched by Su Batian's power. As she faltered, Lin Fang appeared and cautioned her. When Su Batian seized an opportunity to attack, Zhan Qinghong was injured protecting Lin Fang. Gu Yan quickly intervened to halt the fight.
Seizing the moment, Lin Fang feigned drunkenness and had himself and Zhan Qinghong escorted to the backyard for treatment, telling her he only pretended to be drunk to get them out safely. Meanwhile, Gu Yue met with Feng Bufei, urging him to avoid causing trouble before the Wulin assembly. He provided Feng Bufei with a new identity and instructed him to assist Gu Yan in winning the leadership position.
Feng Bufei complained about his stolen treasures but ultimately agreed, as he knew Gu Yue possessed the coveted Seven Star Sword Manual. In the backyard, Xiao Lan complained about the bitter medicine and chided Zhan Qinghong for being injured in a specific spot where her golden soft armor had a hole. She blamed Zhan Qinghong's childhood mischief for burning the hole in the armor, provoking Zhan Qinghong to jokingly threaten sending Xiao Lan to Su Batian for axe practice.
Zhan Qinghong, noting Lin Fang's earlier need to feign drunkenness, speculated that despite his appearance, he led an unhappy life, likely because he was living under someone else's roof. Xiao Lan, moved by this, vowed to treat Lin Fang better. Later, Lin Fang visited Zhan Qinghong, bringing more medicine. Zhan Qinghong, watched by Xiao Lan, told him she had already taken the medicine provided by Lord Gu. She praised its cooling and numbing effects.
Lin Fang was taken aback, revealing that the medicine was for external application. Xiao Lan quickly excused herself. Lin Fang, seeing Zhan Qinghong's energetic state, was relieved her injury wasn't serious. Zhan Qinghong then confronted Lin Fang, asserting that his carefree facade was a pretense and that he was secretly unhappy.
Lin Fang playfully deflected her insights, reminding her of an earlier incident where she had "peeked over the wall and peeped at a handsome man," which she promptly told him not to mention again, noting it was the second time he had covered her mouth.
Episode 4 Recap
After the incident at the White Tiger Clan, Wen You found himself restless and sleepless at night, suffering from what his sister, Wen Rou, soon identified as lovesickness. Wen Rou playfully interrogated him about his symptoms, asking if he tossed and turned, felt uneasy, or dreamt of a particular person. Wen You initially denied it but eventually conceded to her accurate description, though he tried to dismiss it as residual poison from the White Tiger Clan.
Their discussion was interrupted by the sudden arrival of Princess Hua Yao, who affectionately greeted Wen You as "Brother Zisu," his courtesy name. She chided him for not informing her of his return for the Wulin assembly and presented him with a roster of martial artists she had painstakingly compiled. Hua Yao then insisted Wen You take her to see the lanterns on the Qinhuai River.
Despite Wen You’s concerns about the crowds, Hua Yao persisted, and Wen Rou suggested they all go, understanding her brother’s predicament. Meanwhile, at Fort Gu, Zhan Qinghong felt bored, lamenting the absence of her martial siblings and the excitement of home. Her maid, Xiao Lan, sympathized, prompting Zhan Qinghong to consider writing a letter home, filled with exaggerated tales of her adventures.
Lin Fang, realizing Zhan Qinghong's boredom, arrived with Gu Yan, proposing to take Zhan Qinghong and Xiao Lan to enjoy the lantern festival. Zhan Qinghong readily agreed, expressing her excitement for an outing where no one would recognize them. At the lively Qinhuai River, the four enjoyed the festive atmosphere, wearing masks to conceal their identities. Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang went to light lanterns by the river, leaving Gu Yan and Xiao Lan behind.
Soon, a confrontation arose when both Zhan Qinghong and Princess Hua Yao simultaneously reached for a unique sugar man wielding a sword. Hua Yao, accustomed to getting what she wanted, offered to pay ten times the price, but Zhan Qinghong refused to yield. Their struggle caused Hua Yao to stumble, and Wen You, stepping in to protect her, began to fight Zhan Qinghong. In the skirmish, their masks fell off, revealing their identities to each other.
Wen You quickly intervened, reminding Hua Yao that Zhan Qinghong had saved his life and Wen Rou's at the White Tiger Clan. Though appeased for the moment, Hua Yao remained furious and ordered her guards to investigate Zhan Qinghong. Shortly after, General Xiahou Ying called out to them from a nearby water pavilion, inviting everyone for drinks. Lin Fang subtly prompted Xiahou Ying to gauge Wen You's character.
Xiahou Ying engaged them in a discussion about the Wulin world, and Wen You's ambitious and strategic views, prioritizing loyalty and strategy over mere martial skill for a leader, greatly impressed him. The evening took a surprising turn when a tipsy Wen Rou openly declared her love for General Xiahou Ying, offering to marry him as repayment for saving her life. The bold proposal shocked everyone, especially Xiahou Ying, who awkwardly excused himself.
Wen You, mortified by his sister's forwardness, chastised her for her lack of family education and for proposing to a mere military general, stressing that their aristocratic family would never permit such a union due to Xiahou Ying's "bad background." His words deeply stung Zhan Qinghong, who, feeling that he looked down upon her own "commoner" background, furiously challenged Wen You to a martial arts duel on the spot.
Their contest led them to tread lightly on the Qinhuai River, showcasing impressive light-body skills. However, Zhan Qinghong suddenly fell into the water. Wen You immediately dove in to pull her out. On shore, it became clear that her old wound had reopened. Seeing Wen You's genuine concern, Zhan Qinghong felt a surge of unexpected warmth despite her injury.
Lin Fang and Gu Yan stepped in, insisting they would take Zhan Qinghong back to Fort Gu for treatment, as she was already staying there. Later, Lin Fang met secretly with General Xiahou Ying. They discussed the upcoming Wulin assembly, agreeing it would be treacherous. Lin Fang revealed his plan to "muddle the waters" by leveraging Wen You's feelings for Zhan Qinghong.
Xiahou Ying reminded Lin Fang of his past suspicions regarding the Zhan family and the death of his parents, but Lin Fang clarified his grudge was against Zhan Podi, not Zhan Qinghong, who was just a child at the time. He asserted that controlling Zhan Qinghong would give them the advantage, and he had chosen Wen You as his "sharp sword" to achieve his goals.
Xiahou Ying warned him to use Wen You carefully, lest the "sword" turn against him, but Lin Fang remained confident in his arrangements. As the Wulin assembly approached, Jun'an City's long street was bustling with people and martial artists. Zhan Qinghong, feeling the excitement, declared her intention to win the leadership. Wen You found Zhan Qinghong and apologized for their earlier altercation, and they agreed to compete fairly, each vowing to win.
Lin Fang then appeared, explaining his participation despite lacking martial arts, stating he "yearns for Wulin." Zhan Qinghong reminded Wen You of her promise to protect Lin Fang, declaring that the three of them would advance together. Wen You regarded Lin Fang with suspicion, perceiving him as calculating. Lin Fang, sensing this, proposed an alliance for the initial rounds, but Wen You, preferring to work alone, only agreed to fair competition.
The assembly commenced with Gu Yue, General Xiahou Ying, and Yuanhui, the abbot of Jiming Temple, presiding. Gu Yue delivered a speech lamenting the vacant leadership since Jiangdong's former Wulin clan director, Lin Xiaotian, died for the country. He expressed his desire for a new, virtuous, and powerful leader. Xiahou Ying then outlined the first challenge, "Difficulty of Kungfu," which would see only forty participants advance.
Contestants had to traverse dense forests, face wild beasts, and navigate steep cliffs from Jun'an Gate to Luoyan Mountain. Due to the large number of participants, they would depart in groups based on "family background" and had to protect their explosive firecrackers, as losing them meant disqualification. This rule immediately drew protests, with Zhan Qinghong vehemently arguing against the class-based grouping, proclaiming that all martial artists were equals.
Shen Yanzhi, the leader of Shuanghua Clan, was impressed by Zhan Qinghong's outspoken nature and gifted her a "soul capture pearl by flowers" for self-defense, explaining its function in an emergency. As the competition began, Lin Fang suggested a shortcut, knowing Zhan Qinghong's exceptional light-body skills would allow them to bypass the chaotic main route.
While navigating the dense forest, they encountered Sun Chuang of the Feiying Clan, a bald man who was indiscriminately destroying other participants' firecrackers to reduce competition. Zhan Qinghong confronted him, leading to a fight where Lin Fang also became involved. Sun Chuang resorted to using "Thousands insects thousands poisons powder," causing Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang to fall off a cliff.
Wen You, having gone back to search for Zhan Qinghong after not seeing her, witnessed their fall and immediately leaped down after them. Miraculously, all three landed safely, and to their surprise, discovered that the opposite cliff was the finish line for the first round. However, getting across the chasm posed a new challenge. Wen You doubted they could carry Lin Fang, who lacked martial arts, across.
Lin Fang argued that returning would guarantee their elimination, as time was running out. He proposed risking a jump using their light-body skills and asked Zhan Qinghong if she trusted him.
Episode 5 Recap
The episode begins with Zhan Qinghong, Wen You, and Lin Fang attempting a perilous crossing over a wide chasm. Zhan Qinghong devises a plan for Wen You to launch a large stone into the gap, which she would then use as a temporary foothold to carry Lin Fang across. Wen You, though hesitant, agrees. However, an unseen assailant uses a hidden weapon to shatter their stepping stone mid-air.
Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang lose their balance, but Wen You quickly throws a second stone, allowing them to safely reach the other side. Immediately after, Wen You confronts Lin Fang, recognizing the attack as an assassination attempt aimed at Lin Fang. He warns Lin Fang, asserting that he cannot involve Zhan Qinghong in such dangers. Lin Fang deflects the accusation, suggesting Wen You, as the strongest contender for the martial arts alliance leader, would be the true target.
Lin Fang then urges both Zhan Qinghong and Wen You to move on. Meanwhile, with many martial artists injured during the first round, General Xiahou Ying goes to Tongfu Inn to check on their welfare. He finds Wen Rou busily treating the wounded and preparing herbal remedies. Wen Rou notices Xiahou Ying's silent observation and calls out to him. Xiahou Ying attempts to leave, but Wen Rou cleverly feigns an injury, prompting a startled cry from her.
He turns back, realizing her trick, which in turn makes Wen Rou understand that Xiahou Ying secretly cares for her. Forty contestants arrive at the second challenge, the "Deity-ghost Chess." A massive banner appears at the cave entrance, and as the ground violently shakes, a giant chessboard is revealed. The treacherous conditions cause several participants to fall into the abyss. When Zhan Qinghong loses her footing and begins to fall, Wen You, without a moment's hesitation, leaps after her.
He holds her tight, using his lightness skills to safely land them both onto the chessboard. The Deity-ghost Chess features the ground as the board and the contestants as living pieces, divided into red and black factions. The objective is to win the game before a pot of water, serving as a timer, runs dry. A chaotic scramble ensues as participants fight to claim cloaks that designate their chess piece.
Amidst the melee, Shen Yanzhi discreetly releases a venomous Five-steps killer snake to protect Lin Fang from Ma Black, who attempts to steal his cloak. When confronted by Housemaster Su Batian, Lin Fang proposes a trade: his General cloak for Su Batian's Pawn cloak. This results in Lin Fang, Wen You, and Zhan Qinghong all becoming part of the red team. Zhan Qinghong admits her lack of chess knowledge but understands the importance of the General piece for survival.
Lin Fang, explaining that the game is like a battlefield, emphasizes his own strategic prowess and Wen You's understanding of piece movement. He suggests they form an alliance to defeat their opponents. Wen You, still wary of Lin Fang, agrees to a temporary alliance given their precarious situation. Lin Fang then ascends to the dripping pot and threatens to spill its contents, which would eliminate all remaining contestants if they do not stop fighting over cloaks.
This unprecedented action is broadcast live by Wulin Rumors, captivating and astonishing the public. Lord Gu views Lin Fang's intervention as a disruption and intends to disqualify him. However, Xiahou Ying argues that Lin Fang's actions were driven by the urgency of the situation, a selfless act to prevent further bloodshed among the contestants, demonstrating true chivalry by risking his own standing. The public, swayed by Xiahou Ying's impassioned defense, loudly protests against Lin Fang's elimination, ensuring his continued participation.
With Lin Fang taking command of the red team, the chess game commences, and pieces are steadily captured. Facing a significant disadvantage in numbers and the formidable strength of black team pawns that have crossed the river, Lin Fang makes a calculated decision: to sacrifice Zhan Qinghong's piece to protect the red team's overall strategy. Wen You strongly objects, accusing Lin Fang of heartlessness and reckless disregard for Zhan Qinghong's life.
Despite his protests, Zhan Qinghong expresses her trust in Lin Fang's plan, asking if he is certain of a win if she makes the move. Lin Fang assures her of a complete victory. Following the game's conclusion, all "eliminated" red team members, including Zhan Qinghong, are revealed to be safe and unharmed, having been escorted to a designated resting area complete with food, hot water, and medical treatment.
The red team achieves a complete victory and advances to the third round, the Exquisite Tower. Su Batian, a man of strong convictions, expresses profound gratitude and admiration for Zhan Qinghong's self-sacrifice. He sincerely apologizes for his previous prejudices and promises to protect her fiercely moving forward, declaring that their past animosity is erased, and they are now friends. Wen You, however, remains deeply suspicious of Lin Fang, particularly when he sees Lin Fang depart alone.
He urges Zhan Qinghong to follow him into a bamboo forest, convinced that Lin Fang has ulterior motives. Zhan Qinghong, maintaining her unwavering trust in Lin Fang's integrity, dismisses Wen You's lingering doubts.
Episode 6 Recap
"""[Recap]""" Lin Fang, aware of someone trailing him, deliberately took a roundabout path before slipping into a bamboo forest to rendezvous with Shen Yanzhi. After their brief meeting, Shen Yanzhi departed. From a vantage point in the dense woods, Zhan Qinghong and Wen You observed a mysterious figure closing in on Lin Fang. Despite Wen You's protests, Zhan Qinghong rushed forward to intervene, but she was outmatched.
The attacker, recognized as a member of Gu Fort, proved formidable, and both Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong would have surely perished had Wen You not intervened. As they recovered, Wen You questioned if the attacker truly belonged to the Gu family, suggesting it could be an impersonator, given Lord Gu's reputation for benevolence. Lin Fang, however, hinted that appearances could be deceiving and confirmed that the person who ambushed him earlier with darts was also among them, urging caution.
Wen You then announced that the next round was about to begin, and he and Lin Fang agreed to proceed independently. Meanwhile, the discovery of Sun Chuang’s body in Jun'an City confirmed Xiahou Ying’s earlier suspicion that an impersonator had infiltrated the Wulin assembly. Concerned about Feng Bufei's potential exposure, Gu Yue quickly proposed a "play along" strategy: to keep the internal situation quiet and treat the incident as a trial.
Xiahou Ying, understanding Gu Yue's underlying motives, agreed to the plan. The remaining competitors arrived at the final challenge, the Exquisite Tower, where the director's badge was located. The rules were simple: no methods were prohibited, and victory was to be achieved through sheer strength, with fate determining who survived. As the announcement finished, a chaotic brawl erupted. Housemaster Ji, secretly dispatched by Gu Yue to aid Gu Yan, tried to prevent others from reaching the badge.
Gu Yan, upon realizing his father’s underhanded tactics, was deeply ashamed and called his father a hypocrite for his actions. Lin Fang then revealed Housemaster Ji as the assailant from the bamboo forest. Furthermore, he exposed the "Sun Chuang" among them as Feng Bufei, one of the three demons in the nether world. The revelation sent shockwaves through the crowd, especially when countless stolen treasures tumbled from Feng Bufei’s person as his disguise was removed.
Feng Bufei brazenly admitted his involvement was for the Seven-star swordsmanship, at Gu Yue's request, but declared his intention to claim the badge depended solely on his mood, openly disrespecting Housemaster Ji. Gu Yan, principled and unwilling to gain the title through deceit, turned to fight Housemaster Ji. Feng Bufei, meanwhile, ascended to the second floor, reaching for the badge, but was unexpectedly stopped by Wen You.
With Su Batian and Housemaster Ji defeated, and Feng Bufei feigning unconsciousness, only Lin Fang, Zhan Qinghong, Wen You, Shen Yanzhi, and Gu Yan remained. Shen Yanzhi, loyal to Lin Fang, made it clear she would not allow others to claim the director's badge. Capitalizing on a moment of distraction, Feng Bufei delivered a powerful blow towards Lin Fang. In a desperate act, Zhan Qinghong threw herself in front of Lin Fang, taking the full force of the attack.
She tumbled from the upper levels of the Exquisite Tower. Wen You, without hesitation, leaped after her, catching the now unconscious Zhan Qinghong mid-air. He immediately abandoned the competition to seek medical help for her. Lin Fang then incapacitated Feng Bufei, who had been feigning unconsciousness, with a trick that made him uncontrollably itchy and forced another confession.
Lin Fang revealed that Feng Bufei, a Xiyan national, along with the Bai Hu clan, had infiltrated the Xiao kingdom with ulterior motives, and declared that Gu Yue was the mastermind behind it all. Gu Yan, in disbelief, refused to accept that his father would collude with foreign enemies, prompting Lin Fang to promise to uncover the truth. Outside the tower, a tense crowd awaited the outcome. When the doors finally opened, Lin Fang emerged, holding the director's badge.
Xiahou Ying was the first to declare Lin Fang the new Wulin clan's director of Jiangdong. Amidst the cheers of the people, Gu Yue, despite his inner rage, was forced to publicly acknowledge Lin Fang's victory. After the assembly, Lin Fang and Wen You had a candid conversation.
Lin Fang explained his true intentions for becoming the director were not just to avenge his family, but also to unite the Wulin world to defend the Xiao empire against external threats, like the Yan and Wei kingdoms. He also revealed he was suffering from a rare venom, making him a suitable "sacrificial" leader for the Wulin world.
Lin Fang also highlighted Wen You’s noble background, suggesting that while it might cause suspicion if he were the director, it also positioned him to be a crucial bridge between the Wulin world and the imperial court. Understanding their shared goals, the two decided to set aside their rivalry and work together to usher in a glorious era for Wulin.
Simultaneously, Gu Yan confronted his father, Gu Yue, about his deceitful actions and his alleged connection with the three demons in the nether world. Gu Yue, angered, denied the accusations and criticized Gu Yan for believing an outsider over his own father. Gu Yan, however, expressed his disillusionment, stating he could have made the Gu family proud through his own strength, accusing his father of never giving him a chance.
Back at the inn, Wen You sat by Zhan Qinghong's bedside, deeply worried. Zhan Qinghong, still in a daze, murmured Lin Fang’s name, stirring jealousy in Wen You. Just then, Xiao Lan, carrying a basin of hot water, stumbled. Wen You instinctively moved to shield Zhan Qinghong, drenching his back. Zhan Qinghong slowly regained consciousness and, noticing Wen You’s wet clothes, expressed concern.
Wen You, flustered and seemingly avoiding a conversation about the Wulin Assembly, quickly made an excuse to check on medicine and hurried away. Xiao Lan, observing the interaction, told Zhan Qinghong that she believed Wen You was smitten with her and was likely jealous when she called out Lin Fang’s name. Wen You's sister, Wen Rou, later confirmed Zhan Qinghong's affection for Wen You, assuring him that Zhan Qinghong only saw Lin Fang as a friend.
Overjoyed by this confirmation, Wen You rushed back to Zhan Qinghong's room with special sweet medicine Wen Rou had prepared with sweet daisy and honey. To encourage Zhan Qinghong to take her medicine, Wen You promised to buy her candied figurines. They sealed their understanding with a pinky swear, their unspoken feelings finally acknowledged.
Episode 7 Recap
Wen You took Zhan Qinghong to a beautiful flower field, a romantic surprise he had discovered earlier. Zhan Qinghong thanked him for carrying her back after her injury, to which Wen You, with a smug smile, admitted she was heavier than she looked but said he was happy to carry her. She then questioned him about how Lin Fang had become the Wulin director, wondering if he was a hidden kung fu master.
Wen You confessed that Lin Fang knew no martial arts, but Shen Yanzhi, his aide, had helped him win. He added that Lin Fang later explained his deeper understanding of Wulin politics and his thorough future plans, which Wen You now respected. Zhan Qinghong observed that when men truly respected each other, past grievances could be set aside. Wen You informed her that he would be visiting his mother for a few days but promised to return soon.
Lin Fang, suffering a severe relapse from the five-stone powder, maintained a public image of a debauched new director. He had his maids summon dancers to his room, using the revelry to mask his critical health. Zhan Qinghong, concerned, tried to visit him, but his servants, under instruction, turned her away, claiming he was resting despite the sounds of music and dancing. Frustrated, she left, but later deduced that Lin Fang's behavior was a cover-up for something serious.
Meanwhile, Shen Yanzhi, unable to bear Lin Fang's suffering, went against his wishes and sought out Zhan Qinghong. Shen Yanzhi revealed that Lin Fang's late mother was the former leader of the Shuanghua Clan and that she, along with Lin Fang's two servants, Dongxue and Wanqing, secretly protected him.
She explained that the heart-warming pearl, originally a Lin family treasure, was meant to be used by Lin Fang to extend his life after he became director, a position he sought by using the pearl as bait to trap Feng Bufei. However, the pearl unexpectedly fell into Zhan Qinghong's hands. Shen Yanzhi stressed the danger if news of Lin Fang's critical health spread during his vulnerable early days as director. Zhan Qinghong immediately offered to return the pearl.
Zhan Qinghong, now aware of Lin Fang's worsening condition, took a pill grinder from her maid, Xiao Rou, and crushed the heart-warming pearl into powder, ignoring Xiao Rou's lament about losing her beauty regimen. She declared that the powder was for saving Lin Fang's life and he would consume all of it. At the inn, various Wulin sects, having heard Lin Fang's decree to reorganize Wulin, arrived with gifts to congratulate him, hoping to gauge his true intentions.
However, Lin Fang, maintaining his reclusive act, accepted their gifts through his maid but refused to meet anyone, sparking disdain among many, including Gu Yue, who publicly scorned Lin Fang's perceived greed. Even though Zhan Qinghong knew the dancers were a distraction, she was taken aback by the sheer number of them in Lin Fang's room. The dancers, unaware of her identity, mocked her as a "country woman" trying to win favor.
Zhan Qinghong, with a playful trick, smudged dirt on one dancer's face, driving them all out. She then confronted Lin Fang, who defensively accused her of believing he no longer needed her now that he was director. Zhan Qinghong insisted he was merely trying to push her away for her own safety. Ignoring his denials, she forced him to take the powdered heart-warming pearl. Lin Fang's condition quickly worsened, causing Zhan Qinghong to panic.
Consulting an ancient text, she discovered that the pearl was a powerful life-extending medicine that was fatal to those with weak internal energy or severe injuries unless a skilled person assisted in circulating their own internal energy to help dissolve it. Disregarding the impropriety, Zhan Qinghong immediately began to transfer her internal energy to Lin Fang.
Meanwhile, Wen You, having bought a sugar figurine for Zhan Qinghong, overheard "Wulin Rumors" spreading gossip that Zhan Qinghong had chased away all of Lin Fang's dancers to "monopolize" him. Lin Fang, during the healing, teased Zhan Qinghong that her internal energy was too shallow for her to worry about losing control and going berserk.
Zhan Qinghong affirmed her trust in him, stating he was her first friend after leaving home and that she believed he did not look down upon her or her family. Wen You, although knowing the rumors were false, rushed to the inn. Shen Yanzhi and Lin Fang's servants tried to stop him, but recognizing his importance to Lin Fang, they allowed him to pass.
He entered the room and, seeing Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang in a healing embrace, mistakenly thought they were in a romantic entanglement and offered to "bow out." Zhan Qinghong quickly called him over, clarifying she was saving Lin Fang from the pearl's adverse effects. Relieved, Wen You placed the sugar figurine aside and, remembering tales from "Wulin Rumors" about a second expert assisting during internal energy circulation, took up a protective stance at the door.
Shortly after, Gu Yue dispatched Housemaster Ji and several disciples to raid the inn and set it ablaze. Amidst the chaos of the fight outside, Wen You and Shen Yanzhi were initially unaware of the fire spreading within the inn. Just as Zhan Qinghong completed the final cycle of her energy transfer, she grabbed Lin Fang, and they narrowly escaped through a back alley. Su Batian and others soon arrived, finding everyone safe.
Housemaster Ji reported back to Gu Yue that no bodies were found in the charred remains of the inn. Gu Yue, believing Lin Fang's fate to be uncertain, worried about potential unrest and was urged to resume his role as acting director. Gu Yan, suspecting his father's involvement, confronted Gu Yue about the fire, having seen Housemaster Ji and his injured disciples return the previous night.
Their tense argument was interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Yu, an envoy from Prime Minister Wang, who had come to meet Lin Fang. Gu Yue, prepared with a deceptive story, claimed Lin Fang had tragically perished in the fire and feigned deep sorrow as his "god-son's" bereaved father. However, Lin Fang dramatically appeared, completely unharmed, and directly greeted Mr. Yu as the new Wulin Director, accepting the Prime Minister's summons and nullifying Gu Yue's scheme.
Lin Fang returned to his familiar Lin family home, where old memories came flooding back. He recalled a childhood moment when his father asked what he would do with a newly found blade, and his young self declared he would "give it to the person I want to protect in the future." Observing Wen You and Zhan Qinghong's joyful banter, Lin Fang found himself falling for Zhan Qinghong and decided to give her his father's precious dagger.
As the Heroes Ceremony approached, Lin Fang spared no expense, ordering the best tailor in Jun'an to create new clothes for Zhan Qinghong. However, despite trying on numerous beautiful garments, Lin Fang remained unsatisfied, leaving Zhan Qinghong exhausted. Eventually, Lin Fang simply purchased all the clothes and accompanying jewelry for her. Later, at the banquet, Zhan Qinghong, wearing one of her new outfits, unexpectedly encountered Princess Hua Yao dressed in an identical gown. Enraged by this perceived slight, Princess Hua Yao ordered her handmaidens to forcibly remove Zhan Qinghong's clothes.
Episode 8 Recap
Hua Yao Princess confronted Zhan Qinghong, demanding to know why their clothes were identical. Hua Yao ordered her attendants to strip Zhan Qinghong, but Prime Minister Wang Dun, Hua Yao’s grandfather, intervened, calming the situation and apologizing for his granddaughter's disrespectful behavior. Wang Dun escorted Hua Yao away to compose herself. Lin Fang arrived shortly after, having already anticipated the wardrobe mishap and prepared new clothes for Zhan Qinghong.
He assured her that as the Wulin clan's director, he would always care for her, understand her temperament, know her habits, and fulfill her needs. At the banquet, Prime Minister Wang Dun honored the new Wulin clan's director, Lin Fang, commending him for his extraordinary talent in becoming director despite lacking martial arts skills and calling him a rare genius. On behalf of the Emperor, Wang Dun bestowed upon Lin Fang five hundred taels of gold and two residences.
He then presented the Emperor's other gifts: a pair of swords, giving the heavier "Jue" sword (a larger, ring-like sword, typically for men) to Wen You and the lighter "Jue" sword (a smaller, jade pendant-like sword, typically for women) to Zhan Qinghong. Initially, Zhan Qinghong was envious of Lin Fang's grander reward and was even teased by Wen You.
However, her mood changed when Lin Fang, in his capacity as director, surprised her by formally appointing Wen You as Deputy Director and her as Guardian. Overjoyed by the unexpected honor and her new sword, Zhan Qinghong beamed with delight. Seeing her happiness, a displeased Hua Yao proposed that Zhan Qinghong demonstrate her new divine weapon. Zhan Qinghong, eager to show off, began to perform the Cloud-Attacking swordsmanship on the banquet floor with her "Jue" sword.
Hua Yao subtly signaled a nearby guard, who threw stones at Zhan Qinghong, causing her to nearly fall. Wen You quickly stepped forward to support her, improvising a coordinated sword dance. Lin Fang joined them, playing the zither, and their combined performance was flawless, drawing praise from the attendees, especially Prime Minister Wang Dun. Hua Yao, frustrated by her failed attempt to embarrass Zhan Qinghong, then instructed Secretary Cheng to inquire about Zhan Qinghong's family background.
Secretary Cheng asked if Zhan Qinghong was married, then suggested marrying her to his younger brother, a widower serving the Emperor. Lin Fang quickly interjected, explaining that Zhan Qinghong, from a Wulin family, would remain in the martial arts world and was unsuitable for such a match. Zhan Qinghong, unable to express her anger publicly, excused herself to a pavilion.
There, she mused on a more impressive nickname for herself than "Wulin clan's director's guardian," as it sounded like a servant's title. Later, Lin Fang found Zhan Qinghong in the pavilion, contemplating new nicknames for herself. He was about to approach her with cloud cakes when Wen You appeared, also carrying cloud cakes for her. Wen You confessed his strong feelings for Zhan Qinghong, who admitted she felt the same.
Lin Fang, witnessing their heartfelt exchange, turned and left in sorrow. That night, Lin Fang returned with Xiahou Ying and others. He publicly announced that Xiahou Ying would instruct Zhan Qinghong in swordsmanship. After Zhan Qinghong left, Shen Yanzhi observed Lin Fang's evident affection for Zhan Qinghong. Concerned about Lin Fang's internal poison, which had not yet been expelled, Shen Yanzhi cautioned him against falling in love, warning it would accelerate the poison's onset.
The next day, Xiahou Ying began training Wen You and Zhan Qinghong, instructing them to swap their newly acquired swords: Zhan Qinghong would use Wen You's heavier "Jue" sword, and Wen You would use her lighter "Jue" sword.
Meanwhile, Lin Fang and Xiahou Ying went to investigate a reported incident at Wishful Gate in the imperial suburbs, where dozens of people had vanished, leaving only the patriarch Lu Ming guarding a coffin containing a disciple's body, beside which lay a Golden Bell Flower. Upon their arrival, another body was mysteriously thrown into the compound, landing near them. Concurrently, Zhan Qinghong and Wen You struggled with their swapped swords.
Zhan Qinghong found the heavy sword challenging to wield, recognizing her past over-reliance on agility rather than strength. They discussed the nuances of heavy versus light swords, each offering advice to the other despite their competitive banter. They then challenged each other to see who could master their new sword first. Soon after, Ji Xiaoran, along with other Wulin clan members, arrived at Lin Fang’s residence, demanding that he thoroughly investigate the Wishful Gate tragedy.
Lin Fang asserted his authority, promising to uncover the truth and apprehend the culprit, then dismissed them, emphasizing the need for time to investigate properly. Lin Fang gathered everyone to discuss the case. He deduced that the missing Wishful Gate members were likely abducted by the perpetrator, who he believed to be a highly skilled woman with a personal grudge against Lu Ming.
The discovery of a second body twelve hours after the first suggested the killer intended to systematically execute the captives, one by one, to lure Lu Ming out. Xiahou Ying deployed troops to increase city security. Other Wulin sects allied with Wishful Gate also sent search parties. Lin Fang instructed Wen You and Su Batian to search several mountain areas the following day, while assigning Zhan Qinghong the task of protecting him.
Meanwhile, Hua Yao visited Wen Rou, inquiring about Wen You's whereabouts. Wen Rou disclosed that Wen You was out on a mission, investigating a tricky matter involving the Wishful Gate massacre and a Golden Bell Flower, with Zhan Qinghong accompanying the group. Hua Yao grew anxious upon learning Wen You and Zhan Qinghong were together, but the mention of the Golden Bell Flower sparked a new idea in her mind.
Separately, Shen Yanzhi examined Lin Fang's palm, discovering a red spot on his Shaofu point. She suspected it was related to the heart-warming pearl and the accumulated toxins, warning him to be vigilant about any changes.
Episode 9 Recap
Zhan Qinghong diligently practiced her sword, her movements having grown nimble through consistent training, as evidenced when she effortlessly caught a teacup that Xiao Lan clumsily knocked over. Soon after, Xiahou Ying arrived with Wen You. Xiahou Ying praised Zhan Qinghong's improved reflexes and sought their feedback on the heavy and light swords they had recently swapped. Wen You described the heavy sword as unsharp but capable of crushing, and the light sword as flexible and powerful.
Xiahou Ying explained that the heavy sword made Wen You's movements too stiff, while the light sword caused Zhan Qinghong to over-rely on footwork. He then assigned Wen You to practice light sword techniques to cultivate an imposing spirit, while tasking Zhan Qinghong with mastering light sword techniques using her heavy sword, aiming for the mastery of "wielding a heavy sword like a light one, cutting rain without scattering it, touching flowers without staining them."
Finally, Xiahou Ying presented Zhan Qinghong with the peerless Bolting Swordsmanship manual, created by his senior apprentice Jian Lin, instructing both her and Wen You to study it. Though Zhan Qinghong initially gloated about being favored, Xiahou Ying promptly asked her to make a copy for Wen You, who was occupied assisting Xiahou Ying. Zhan Qinghong playfully agreed, but stated the speed would depend on her mood. Later, Zhan Qinghong approached Lin Fang, strategically offering him tea.
Lin Fang, seeing through her pretense, prompted her to state her intentions. Zhan Qinghong confessed she needed help copying the sword manual, claiming it would allow her to focus on improving her martial arts to better protect him. Amused, Lin Fang thanked her and offered her a fitting title in return. Recalling her impressive Cloud Swordsmanship display at a recent banquet, he declared her the "Cloud Fairy," a name Zhan Qinghong enthusiastically embraced.
After Zhan Qinghong departed, Lin Fang and Xiahou Ying discussed the urgency of finding the Seven-star swordsmanship and the complexities of the Wishful Gate affair. Lin Fang then tasked Wen You and Su Batian with searching the mountains for clues related to the Golden flower. As they prepared to depart, a maid from Princess Hua Yao unexpectedly summoned Wen You to the palace, claiming the princess had leads on the Golden flower case.
Despite Wen You's skepticism about Hua Yao's knowledge, Lin Fang advised him to investigate. Wen You reluctantly left with the maid, leaving Su Batian to lead the search party. After Wen You's departure, Lin Fang, accompanied by Xiahou Ying, personally visited Master Yuanhui at Jiming Temple. There, he received a wooden box containing the Seven-star Swordsmanship manual, only to find it completely blank.
Even Master Yuanhui was puzzled, noting that the last person to have contact with the manual was Lin Fang's father, Lin Xiaotian. Unwilling to be left behind, Zhan Qinghong convinced Su Batian to let her join his search, citing his short-staffed team and her desire to help.
Together, they ingeniously used bees to track the Golden flower's scent, following the insects to a cluster of newly constructed houses, which they believed to be the killer's hideout where the Wishful Gate hostages were held. Su Batian urged caution and suggested waiting for reinforcements, but Zhan Qinghong, eager to act, insisted on striking while they had the element of surprise. Zhan Qinghong disregarded Su Batian's warnings and rushed into the hideout, rescuing the Wishful Gate members and Lady Lu.
However, the killer, Fang Gu, appeared, engaging Zhan Qinghong in a fierce fight. Lady Lu desperately warned Zhan Qinghong about Fang Gu's hidden weapons. Su Batian intervened to protect Zhan Qinghong, but was tragically struck down by Fang Gu's attack. The killer taunted Zhan Qinghong, blaming her for Su Batian's death and attempting to finish her off.
With his last breath, Su Batian, despite his earlier promise to protect her after the competition, urged Zhan Qinghong to protect Lin Fang, reiterating that she was a good kid. Zhan Qinghong was overcome with grief, calling out to him as he passed. Wen You, arriving shortly after, found a dying Su Batian and a devastated Zhan Qinghong.
Meanwhile, at the palace, Hua Yao presented Wen You with an elaborate dance performance titled "Golden Flower Language" with falling petals, rather than any actual clues. Wen You, realizing he had been tricked, grew visibly annoyed. Hua Yao confessed her deception, explaining she had only wanted him to relax and avoid the dangers of the martial arts world.
However, Wen You, deeply frustrated, stated his urgent duty to save lives and refused to be swayed by her attempts at leisure, even as Hua Yao accused him of wanting to be with someone else. Wen You angrily departed the palace, leaving Hua Yao distraught. In the aftermath, Lin Fang was informed of Su Batian's heroic death during the rescue, and Lady Lu's re-abduction, though other Wishful Gate members from Red Valley were saved.
Lin Fang immediately arranged for Su Batian's funeral and sent Zhan Qinghong home to rest. Consumed by guilt, Zhan Qinghong refused to eat or speak, believing her impulsiveness had caused Su Batian's demise. Wen You patiently comforted her, refusing to leave her side. He listened as she blamed herself, reminding her not to reject his care. He then gently led her to the garden, attempting to lift her spirits by playing with fallen leaves.
As Zhan Qinghong and Wen You then gracefully practiced their swordsmanship in the garden, a silent Lin Fang observed them from a distance. His attendant, noticing a blood spot on Lin Fang's arm had extended another half an inch, noted that his heart pain was worsening. The attendant also informed him that some discontented martial artists and Patriarch Lu had arrived.
Amidst grumbling from some martial artists who criticized the unreliability of young leaders, Lu Ming presented himself before Lin Fang, feigning gratitude for the rescue of his men, but lamenting his wife's continued abduction. However, his true intention was revealed when he launched an assassination attempt on Lin Fang. Lin Fang, having anticipated this, skillfully countered the attack. Wen You exposed Lu Ming's treacherous act.
Lu Ming confessed he was forced by Fang Gu, a Xi Yan assassin, who had kidnapped his wife, Lixu, to compel him to kill Lin Fang. The revelation of a Xi Yan assassin's involvement, coupled with Lu Ming's perceived treason, incited outrage among the assembled martial artists, who clamored for his immediate execution. Xiahou Ying, however, intervened, asserting his authority as the guard for Jun'an.
He explained that while the imperial court typically refrained from interfering in Wulin affairs, Fang Gu's status as a Xi Yan assassin brought matters of state security into play, justifying his presence. Lu Ming then recounted his past: three years prior, he had fallen in love with Fang Gu at Qinhuai Riverside and exchanged vows, but he was bound by an arranged marriage to Lixu. Upon learning this, Fang Gu left him.
After marrying Lixu, Lu Ming later discovered Fang Gu was a Xi Yan assassin, leading to a confrontation where she attempted to persuade him to abandon everything and join her in Xi Yan. However, he could not bring himself to betray his sect or his wife. Lin Fang revealed that both Lu Ming and Fang Gu were merely pawns in a larger scheme orchestrated by a cunning, unseen mastermind.
He emphasized that Lady Lu's testimony was crucial to expose the true culprit and lure Fang Gu out. At that moment, Lady Lu was brought in, safe and sound, confirming Lin Fang's rescue and expressing deep distress over her husband's misguided actions. Lu Ming, filled with remorse, apologized to Lin Fang and his wife, offering his life as atonement, but pleaded with Lin Fang to ensure his wife's safety.
Lin Fang promised Lady Lu's protection and then declared that Gu Yue, the most esteemed elder in Wulin, should decide Lu Ming's fate. Later, having heard Lu Ming's story, Zhan Qinghong expressed her fiery disapproval of unfaithful men to Wen You and Lin Fang. She passionately declared that if her beloved ever cheated, she would personally punish him by beating him, shaving his head, stripping him, tattooing "unfaithful man" on his chest, and then leaving him forever.
Wen You was taken aback by her resolve. Zhan Qinghong then playfully challenged Wen You about their upcoming sword match, boasting about her martial arts genius and promising to make him her servant if he lost. Wen You simply told her to win first. Admitting her underlying fear of losing to Wen You, Zhan Qinghong secretly sought advice from Lin Fang.
Lin Fang, recalling her earlier boast, then offered her concise counsel: to "wield a heavy sword, use light sword techniques." Meanwhile, Princess Hua Yao, having learned of Wen You's successful apprehension of the assassin, was relieved that her earlier attempt to distract him hadn't caused him to miss an important opportunity. Still, she expressed her annoyance with Zhan Qinghong, even mentioning that Wen You's gaze towards Zhan Qinghong at the Heroes' Assembly had been "not right."
Her maid, reinforcing Hua Yao's elevated status, dismissed Zhan Qinghong as a mere "country woman" and suggested a plan: send two boxes of cakes to the Wen household, with one containing a hidden note to discreetly gauge Wen You's true feelings. The various martial arts factions then gathered, preparing to discuss Lu Ming's punishment. Gu Yue, however, voiced his displeasure at Xiahou Ying's presence, questioning why a court official was interfering in the affairs of Wulin.
Episode 10 Recap
The Wulin community gathered, demanding Lu Ming's execution for his involvement with a Xi Yan assassin. Xiahou Ying was also present to oversee the proceedings. Lin Fang entrusted Gu Yue with deciding Lu Ming's fate. As Gu Yue hesitated, Fang Gu suddenly appeared, accusing Gu Yue of betraying their alliance and attempting to silence Lu Ming now that Xi Yan's influence was waning.
Gu Yue vehemently denied knowing Fang Gu or colluding with Xi Yan, challenging her to provide evidence of such treasonous acts and appealing to his decades of honorable conduct in Wulin. Undeterred, Fang Gu threatened to expose all of Gu Yue's misdeeds with the White Tiger Gang. Amidst the wavering opinions of the crowd, Lu Ming's wife, Lixu, stepped forward, confirming she had been kidnapped by Fang Gu and that Gu Yue was indeed Fang Gu's accomplice.
The situation escalated when Gu Yan arrived, condemning his father Gu Yue's actions. Gu Yan revealed he had rescued Lixu after she was almost freed by Lin Fang's people, and that his father had planned for Lu Ming to assassinate the Wulin Alliance Leader, thus making Lu Ming an enemy of the entire Wulin and forcing him into hiding with Fang Gu.
Gu Yan, who referred to Lin Fang as Wen Xuan, presented a golden flower left by Fang Gu at their home as proof. Enraged, Gu Yue accused Lin Fang of turning his own son against him, proclaiming, "the student has become the master."
Seizing the moment, Housemaster Ji quickly shifted allegiance, denouncing Gu Yue as "ambitious" and having "no morals," and revealed that Gu Yue had coerced him to assassinate the Wulin Alliance Leader at the martial arts competition to secure the directorship for Gu Yan. Gu Yue, cornered, declared, "Pretext is useless when conviction is already made," still refusing to confess. In a desperate move, Gu Yue seized Lixu as a hostage.
Lu Ming pleaded with Fang Gu to save Lixu, admitting his wrongs. Fang Gu confronted Lu Ming about his lack of affection for her, then sacrificed herself to save Lixu, dying at Gu Yue's hand. Lu Ming mourned her, revealing his enduring love. Lin Fang ordered Gu Yue to be imprisoned and interrogated about his foreign collusion and Wulin transgressions.
Meanwhile, Hua Yao sent two boxes of cakes to the Wen residence, one for Wen Rou and one for Wen You. She included a riddle, hoping to decipher Wen You's feelings: green cakes would signify indifference, while red would mean mutual affection. The maid instructed Wen Rou to give the red box to Wen You and keep the black one for herself, but Wen Rou, engrossed in a book, paid little heed.
Elsewhere, Zhan Qinghong and Wen You were engaged in a martial arts match. Thanks to Lin Fang's guidance, Zhan Qinghong skillfully used light sword techniques with a heavy sword, defeating Wen You. As per their bet, Wen You had to grant her a wish. Zhan Qinghong challenged him to procure the elusive cloud cake from the Temporary Palace banquet within an hour.
Wen You, unable to find the imperial delicacy in any ordinary establishment, went to Wen Rou to ask if she could bake it. Spotting the dessert boxes, Wen You mistakenly took the black box (intended for Wen Rou, which contained the red cakes but lacked Hua Yao's riddle) and presented its contents to Zhan Qinghong. They shared the red, peach-flavored cakes, which Zhan Qinghong found exquisite.
She initially suspected Wen You had stolen them from the palace, but he clarified they were a gift from Princess Hua Yao, emphasizing their platonic sibling relationship. Zhan Qinghong, despite her initial pique, eventually shared the cake with him. Unaware of the mix-up, Hua Yao later interpreted Wen You's enjoyment of the red cake as a sign of reciprocal feelings. Back at the Wulin alliance, Gu Yan, tormented by the situation, pleaded with Lin Fang to spare his father.
He then confronted Gu Yue in his cell, urging him to confess the truth about the death of Lin Fang’s father, but Gu Yue remained unrepentant and hostile. Ultimately, unable to bear watching his father die despite his unforgivable crimes, Gu Yan privately released him. He then appeared before Lin Fang, taking full responsibility for Gu Yue's escape and apologizing for the suffering Lin Fang had endured due to Gu Yue's past deceptions.
To atone for his father's sins and his own actions, Gu Yan then consumed poison. As he lay dying, he reminisced about their happy childhood, where he cherished Lin Fang as a "little brother" and wished for him to consider the Gu family his own, expressing sorrow that the family had instead become a source of agony. Lin Fang, devastated, called Gu Yan "brother" in return, affirming Gu Yan would always be his good brother.
Overcome with grief, Lin Fang collapsed, his blood spots visibly worsening. His aide quickly realized that these were symptoms of poisoning, not merely side effects from the Five-stone infusion detox. The aide suspected Gu Yue's involvement and resolved to research the poison. Lin Fang, however, instructed his aide to keep his condition secret, fearing it would alarm others, and maintained an outward appearance of health and composure.
Concerned for Lin Fang, Zhan Qinghong attempted to lift his spirits with unconventional methods, suggesting he smash a vase or cry into a pillow. When these failed, she offered him a spicy cake, believing it would induce tears and relieve his sorrow. Lin Fang declined, and Zhan Qinghong expressed her unwavering support as his protector, empathizing with his loss as she treasured her own martial brothers.
As Lin Fang, Zhan Qinghong, and Wen You prepared to depart for Cang Wu to apprehend Gu Yue, Xiahou Ying offered an elder's counsel, emphasizing Lin Fang's safety and hoping the mission would be the first step in rectifying the Wulin by resolving Cang Wu's long-standing issues with the corrupt House Green-dragon and House Yixuan, while also capturing Gu Yue. He encouraged Wen You and Zhan Qinghong to look after Lin Fang and continue honing their martial skills.
Wen Rou expressed concern for Wen You's departure, asking him to care for their parents and then inquired if Xiahou Ying would also be joining the expedition. Hua Yao arrived, disappointed that Wen You hadn't informed her of his trip, and asked if he enjoyed her cakes, specifically which color. Wen You responded that the red, peach-flavored one was good, which Hua Yao misinterpreted as a sign of his affection. Lin Fang acknowledged the treacherous path ahead in Cang Wu.
Meanwhile, Gu Yue had already arrived in Cang Wu and met with Housemaster Li of House Green-dragon and Housemaster Cao of House Yixuan, rivals who controlled the region. Gu Yue warned them that Lin Fang was on his way, intent on "slaughtering them like monkeys." He proposed an alliance, promising them control over Cang Wu and eventually the entire Wulin, in exchange for Lin Fang's death to avenge his son, Gu Yan. The housemasters, initially skeptical of Gu Yue's diminished status, showed interest in the potential gains and the power of Xi Yan that Gu Yue subtly hinted at.
Episode 11 Recap
The Wulin Director, Lin Fang, and his entourage arrived in Cang Wu, where they were met with an immediate show of force by Cao Yang, the Housemaster of Yixuan, and Li Muzhong, the Housemaster of Green-Dragon. The two refused them entry to the inn, claiming it had been fully rented. Lin Fang, however, saw through their intimidation tactics. He decided to play along, taking Zhan Qinghong and Xiao Lan on a leisurely shopping trip for rouge.
He also discreetly tasked Wen You with contacting the local governor, suspecting collusion between the governor and the two hostile factions who had been causing trouble in Cang Wu. While strolling through the streets of Cang Wu, Lin Fang became the center of attention. He and Zhan Qinghong noticed they were being followed but maintained a facade of casual enjoyment. Lin Fang, demonstrating an unexpected knowledge of cosmetics, asked the shop owner for the finest "Ten Shades of Allure" rouge.
He then personally applied a shade called "Crimson" to Zhan Qinghong, gifting her the entire collection. This elaborate performance was intended to mislead Cao Yang and Li Muzhong, who were secretly observing. From a distance, they dismissed Lin Fang as a mere playboy and Zhan Qinghong as a frivolous girl preoccupied with makeup. They also noted Wen You, son of the Prince's assistant, was with them but scoffed at the idea of imperial power holding sway in Cang Wu.
Soon after, Gu Yue, having learned of Lin Fang's initial expulsion, chastised Cao Yang and Li Muzhong for their rashness. He instructed them to invite Lin Fang back to the inn, emphasizing that it would be easier to monitor and make a move against him if he were housed there.
Left with no alternative, Cao Yang and Li Muzhong humbly approached Lin Fang, expressing their apologies for not recognizing him and inviting him to a banquet at the Bihan restaurant as a gesture of goodwill. Lin Fang graciously accepted. Meanwhile, Wen You reported his findings: Cao Yang and Li Muzhong were indeed corrupt local tyrants, involved in various criminal activities, and the governor was complicit, accepting annual bribes from both factions.
Knowing the upcoming banquet was a trap, Lin Fang and his companions decided to "play along" to ensnare their enemies. Zhan Qinghong, excited, showed Wen You the numerous rouges Lin Fang had gifted her, explaining they were part of their ruse. She playfully tried to apply some to Wen You, leading to a lighthearted tussle that ended with them falling onto a bed. As Wen You leaned in closer, Xiao Lan burst into the room, startling them.
Wen You, visibly blushing, quickly excused himself. The night of the banquet arrived, and Lin Fang engaged in witty banter with Cao Yang and Li Muzhong. He then subtly introduced his plan to establish a sub-branch of the Wulin Alliance in Cang Wu, proposing that a highly respected local figure be appointed to oversee it.
This immediately sparked a rivalry between Cao Yang and Li Muzhong, both eager to secure the influential position, and they enthusiastically offered toasts to Lin Fang. Wen You, growing increasingly frustrated by Zhan Qinghong's ready acceptance of drinks, attempted to shield her. However, his efforts only led to both of them consuming more alcohol, eventually earning them a sharp reprimand from Lin Fang for their childish behavior. As they returned to the inn, the group was ambushed by assassins.
Zhan Qinghong valiantly protected Lin Fang, sustaining a wound in the process. The assassins proved to be formidable, but fortunately, General Xiahou Ying arrived just in time to fend them off, forcing the attackers to retreat. Back in the safety of their room, Xiahou Ying sternly rebuked Zhan Qinghong and Wen You for their recklessness at the banquet.
Lin Fang, however, defended them, suggesting that their impulsive actions had inadvertently helped to expose the true nature of the two local factions. Still, Xiahou Ying insisted they learn from their mistakes. Later, a concerned Wen You apologized to Zhan Qinghong for their earlier argument and offered her a precious "Ice-Skin Revitalizing Powder," a legendary medicine known for healing wounds and preventing scars.
Xiao Lan, recognizing the valuable medicine, shooed Wen You out of the room so she could help Zhan Qinghong apply it. Following the assassination attempt, both Cao Yang and Li Muzhong visited Lin Fang, each professing their innocence and offering bribes as a token of their concern. Lin Fang accepted their money, intending to use it to further sow discord between them.
To maintain their façade of carefree visitors, he instructed Zhan Qinghong to take the bribe money and go shopping. Zhan Qinghong happily planned to buy a new outfit for herself, a horse for Uncle Xiahou, and some snacks for Xiao Lan. She also intended to purchase a beautiful fan she had seen to give to Lin Fang. Wen You, upon hearing her plans, playfully demanded his own gift.
Zhan Qinghong teased him but, after some back-and-forth, she decided to bestow upon him a family heirloom: a jade pendant from her mother, carved with a fish motif. Xiao Lan, however, strongly objected, pointing out that a family heirloom was a significant gift for Wen You, while Lin Fang was only getting a mere fan.
Zhan Qinghong explained that it was Wen You's birthday and that the jade, a symbol of good fortune, was given to him because she felt joy and freedom when they were together and wished to explore the world with him. On Wen You's birthday, Zhan Qinghong, dressed in clothes he had previously gifted her, intended to give him the jade pendant after wishing him well.
However, when she entered Lin Fang's room, she found him, Wen You, and a young man named Qiu An in a secret discussion. Qiu An, the current headman of the prestigious Qiu family, was immediately captivated by Zhan Qinghong, dropping his wine cup in surprise. After the meeting, as Qiu An traveled back, he couldn't stop thinking about her, finding her "too adorable."
Overwhelmed by his newfound feelings, he abruptly halted his carriage and decided to return to the inn to confess to Zhan Qinghong. Meanwhile, Zhan Qinghong was in her room, diligently practicing how to present the jade and confess her feelings to Wen You.
Hearing approaching footsteps, she mistakenly assumed it was Wen You and, without looking up, passionately presented the jade and confessed her feelings, only to realize, to her great surprise, that she had just bared her heart to Qiu An.
Episode 12 Recap
Zhan Qinghong had mistakenly given her family's precious jade to Qiu An. Upon realizing her error, she became flustered and attempted to retrieve it, but Qiu An, playfully accepting it as a gift from his "Sister Protector," refused to return it. He boasted of his family's light-body skill, Luoyan Pingsha, and cheekily compared it to Zhan Qinghong's own family technique, Jinghong Lueying. Zhan Qinghong, in turn, called him a child, to which he retorted he was seventeen.
Boldly, he confessed his love and his desire to marry her, a notion Zhan Qinghong dismissed, likening him to her young junior brother. After a brief struggle, Zhan Qinghong managed to reclaim the jade, but Qiu An feigned hurt, accusing her of not genuinely liking him. As she tried to comfort him with reassurances, calling him "cute" and promising another gift, he cleverly snatched the jade back once more and swiftly fled.
Frustrated, Zhan Qinghong stomped her foot, vowing to retrieve the jade from the mischievous young headman next time. Soon after, Wen You appeared, apologizing for his delay. Noticing Zhan Qinghong's emotional state, he inquired about it, to which she vaguely replied that she had lost something but knew where to find it. Wen You then reminded her of his birthday, prompting a simple "Happy Birthday" from Zhan Qinghong. When he pressed for his gift, she playfully called him shameless.
With heartfelt earnestness, Wen You declared his absolute need for her gift, vowing to "pester her for a lifetime" if she didn't give it to him and asserting that she couldn't get rid of him. He then sealed his words with a kiss on her cheek, saying, "Consider that my birthday gift." Meanwhile, the instigation between House Yixuan and the House Green Dragon had successfully brought both factions to the brink of conflict.
Gu Yue met with their leaders, Li Muzhong and Cao Yang, noting their impatience and warning that Lin Fang was likely plotting against them. Li Muzhong questioned the recent assassination attempt on Lin Fang, hinting at hidden motives, while his rival, Cao Yang, was accused by Li Muzhong of robbing House Green Dragon's gambling den. Cao Yang retaliated, blaming House Green Dragon for sabotage.
Intervening, Gu Yue urged them to set aside their personal vendettas if they truly desired to unify Wulin. He stressed that Lin Fang's presence in Cang Wu was a direct threat to them, and their continued infighting would only lead to their mutual destruction, leaving Lin Fang as the sole victor. Both leaders ultimately agreed to heed Gu Yue's advice.
The following morning, Zhan Qinghong and Wen You, disguised as House Yixuan thugs, embarked on a boisterous rampage through the streets. Zhan Qinghong enthusiastically overplayed her role, even attempting to flirt with Wen You, who sternly reminded her to maintain decorum. They brazenly consumed free food, asserting their authority as House Yixuan members. Their chaotic tour culminated in a House Green Dragon gambling den, which Zhan Qinghong identified by the green dragon tattoos on the gamblers' wrists.
She promptly exposed the den's intricate cheating scheme, detailing the magnetized tables and metal-filled dice, information she had gathered from the Director's investigations. When confronted by the casino staff, Zhan Qinghong smashed a loaded die to reveal its metal powder and declared their purpose was to "wreck the place." After successfully raiding the den, Wen You questioned giving the stolen silver to the Qiu family, seeing it as wasteful.
However, Zhan Qinghong explained it was part of the Director's larger strategy. They continued their journey, disguised as peddlers, to deliver the funds to Qiu An for his recruitment efforts. Later, at Qiu An's villa, as Wen You tenderly wiped sweat from Zhan Qinghong's face, he deduced that the jade was originally meant for him, the Deputy Director, and vowed not to lose to Qiu An.
To speak privately with Qiu An, Zhan Qinghong dispatched Wen You to have tea, claiming she needed to deliver a message from the Director regarding Qiu An's marriage. Once alone, she pressed Qiu An to return the jade, citing the Director's alleged command. However, Qiu An, shrewd and defiant, saw through her pretense, insisting the Director would naturally side with him.
He then directly asked if she preferred "standoffish" men like the Deputy Director, offering to emulate such a demeanor to win her affection. Zhan Qinghong, though drawn to Wen You, found Qiu An's forwardness childlike. Exasperated, she eventually told him to keep the jade, believing her connection with Wen You transcended material objects. Unbeknownst to them, Wen You had returned and overheard Qiu An's persistent declarations of love and his intent to marry Zhan Qinghong.
Consumed by jealousy, Wen You immediately intervened, warning Qiu An that he stood no chance and emphatically declared he would never yield Zhan Qinghong to anyone else. Zhan Qinghong found Wen You's protective outburst endearing, reassuring him that Qiu An was merely a child whose words shouldn't be taken seriously, much like her own junior brother. But Wen You remained resolute, stating that no matter how many pursued her, he would never back down or push her toward another.
Qiu An later sought out Lin Fang for counsel regarding Zhan Qinghong, admitting her rejection but his unwavering determination. He argued that the Qiu family was a suitable match for the Zhan family and requested Lin Fang to divulge all details about Zhan Qinghong's preferences so he could "win her over." Lin Fang advised that genuine affection didn't necessitate possession and reminded Qiu An that Wen You and Zhan Qinghong were already deeply in love.
However, Qiu An countered that failing to bravely pursue one's desires would lead to future regret. Lin Fang, acknowledging Qiu An's youth, accountability, and reasonable nature, expressed high hopes for him. He suggested that since Zhan Qinghong enjoyed acts of heroism and good food, a task to investigate the "haunted east house" would surely delight her, allowing Qiu An to fairly compete with Wen You for her affection.
Meanwhile, Xiao Lan, having overheard their conversation, realized that Lin Fang also harbored feelings for Zhan Qinghong but had been concealing them. She presented Lin Fang with a fan Zhan Qinghong had purchased, which Lin Fang admired, calling it "so her." Xiao Lan then directly asked if he liked Zhan Qinghong, expressing her belief that he was more compatible than Wen You. Lin Fang confessed his grave illness and his reluctance to burden others, particularly Zhan Qinghong.
Xiao Lan, however, remained optimistic about finding a cure. Later, Xiao Lan informed Zhan Qinghong that she had delivered the fan to Lin Fang, remarking on his striking appearance. She also teased Zhan Qinghong for accepting Wen You's clothes and handkerchief while still struggling to give him her jade, calling their gifting journey "full of twists and turns." Zhan Qinghong, however, reiterated her determination to reclaim the jade.
Back at the inn, Qiu An sought out Zhan Qinghong, reminding her of the Director's task: to investigate the "haunted east house." Despite her initial reluctance, which Qiu An playfully suggested was fear, she agreed, spurred by his promise to return her jade if she went. Meanwhile, seeing Qiu An's persistent pursuit, Wen You, filled with concern, consulted Lin Fang, who reassured him of Zhan Qinghong's affection and suggested he follow them to ensure her safety.
Upon reaching the abandoned inn, Qiu An dramatically recounted its grim legend of a woman in red who had hung herself there. Inside, Zhan Qinghong heard voices, immediately suspecting the presence of people, despite Qiu An's initial insistence that only ghosts resided there. They soon confirmed the house was indeed inhabited and proceeded with caution, though Qiu An comically jumped at the sight of a rat. Their investigation led them to confront Gu Yue, forcing them to flee.
As an assassin attacked, Qiu An courageously shielded Zhan Qinghong, sustaining injuries before collapsing. Just in the nick of time, Wen You arrived, getting Zhan Qinghong onto his horse and attending to her wounds. Lin Fang also appeared, and Zhan Qinghong praised his foresight. Lin Fang explained that he had already suspected the "haunted inn" and had it under surveillance.
He revealed that orchestrating the conflict between House Yixuan and the House Green Dragon was a calculated move not only to weaken them but also to "lure Gu Yue out." This confirmed their suspicions: the "haunted house" was indeed Gu Yue's secret hideout, explaining the presence of skilled guards and the secrets within. Qiu An wryly remarked on their "good luck" in this discovery, though they also worried if their presence had alerted Gu Yue.
The conflict between House Green Dragon and House Yixuan escalated as Li Muzhong and Cao Yang, still believing the other was responsible for the raids on their gambling dens, convened to discuss strategies against Lin Fang, only to realize his manipulative tactics. In a dramatic display, Li Muzhong, wearing heavy makeup and feigning distress, tearfully complained to Lin Fang that House Green Dragon was being bullied, urging him to intervene. However, Lin Fang had set a trap.
He orchestrated a grand banquet, inviting all the Wulin heroes, including Li Muzhong and Cao Yang. At the feast, Lin Fang, Wen You, and Zhan Qinghong made a formal entrance. Lin Fang declared his intention to mediate a peace between the two warring houses.
But when Li Muzhong and Cao Yang immediately launched into a heated exchange, blaming each other for the ongoing hostilities, Lin Fang dropped a bombshell: he confessed that "his own people" were responsible for the raids and instigating their conflict.
He explained that his true purpose in Cang Wu was not to eradicate them, but to capture Gu Yue, the notorious traitor who had been framing them for attacks on Lin Fang using martial arts mimicking their styles, all as an act of personal vengeance. This revelation sent shockwaves through the assembly. Li Muzhong cursed Gu Yue, but Cao Yang, furious, accused Li Muzhong of colluding with the wanted villain.
Li Muzhong vehemently denied it, accusing Cao Yang of being manipulated by Lin Fang. As the two leaders' accusations spiraled into another violent confrontation, Lin Fang's hidden forces, having surrounded the entire establishment, emerged, demanding that everyone drop their weapons and surrender. Lin Fang had successfully lured his enemies into a decisive confrontation.
Episode 13 Recap
At Cangwu restaurant, Lin Fang skillfully provoked a conflict between two rival factions, then revealed his hidden ambush to capture the wicked leaders of the Cang Wu martial world. When Li Muzhong of the Green Dragon House attempted to assassinate Lin Fang, Wen You intervened just in time to save him. Li Muzhong fled the restaurant but was quickly shot dead by Qiu An.
Cao Yang, the leader of Yixuan House, tried to adapt to the shifting power dynamics, but Wen You recounted his extensive crimes, including robbing 21 shops, killing 121 innocent civilians, and snatching 32 women. Cornered, Cao Yang attempted to retaliate but was ultimately shot dead by a volley of arrows.
Similarly, Li Muzhong's crimes of taking 31 acres, allowing the murder of 77 innocent people, and robbing 30,000 qian were exposed, as were the misdeeds of Zhang Qiusheng of the White Shadow House and Hua Qin of the Atheist House. Lin Fang declared that the most heinous leaders of these criminal groups would face death, while others with a record of evil would be dealt with according to Wulin rules.
He offered a chance for the remaining followers to repent and promised leniency if they vowed never to commit crimes again. He then thanked those who maintained justice and announced Qiu An as the new branch director of Wulin Cang Wu, a decision met with congratulations from the assembly. Later, at the Yingxu Inn, Lin Fang asked Zhan Qinghong if she found his actions too ruthless.
Visibly shaken by the day's events, Zhan Qinghong struggled to reconcile the violence she had witnessed. Wen You tried to comfort her, explaining that such decisiveness was necessary in the martial world. Still distressed, Zhan Qinghong stumbled while leaving, and Wen You quickly scooped her up and carried her back to her room. Lin Fang observed their interaction, feeling a pang of silent pain, aware that he could only protect her from a distance.
Xiahou Ying, noticing Lin Fang's hidden feelings, advised him not to be consumed by love, suggesting that sometimes, sacrificing one's own desires for the happiness of others is the greatest gift. Lin Fang, in turn, playfully probed Xiahou Ying about Wen Rou's persistent affection, noting how Xiahou Ying, fearless in the face of danger, seemed utterly at a loss when it came to Wen Rou.
Wen Rou herself had earlier, in jest, offered to marry Xiahou Ying as a thank you for saving her life, to which Xiahou Ying responded that he could handle any danger but was stumped by her. Soon after, a provocative letter from the remnants of the Green Dragon House, accusing the Wulin director of conspiring with the Qiu family, was found at the inn's door.
It revealed that Li Muxi, deputy leader of the Green Dragon House and sister to the deceased Li Muzhong, had escaped. Qiu An volunteered to lead the mission to eliminate the remaining outlaws. Lin Fang agreed, sending Wen You and Zhan Qinghong with him, but strictly instructed them to only capture the leaders and avoid harming others. This turned out to be a diversion orchestrated by Gu Yue, who sought revenge for his son, Gu Yan.
With Lin Fang's protectors dispatched, Gu Yue infiltrated the inn, confronting Lin Fang in his room. Gu Yue gloated, believing Lin Fang to be defenseless, and declared his intention to slowly torture him. Lin Fang, in turn, accused Gu Yue of exploiting his family's property and deceiving him about his father's death, using him as a hostage. Before Gu Yue could deliver the fatal blow, Lin Fang demanded to know the true cause of his father's death.
Gu Yue, believing Lin Fang was about to die, revealed that he had indeed killed Lin Xiaotian years ago. He confessed that while he desired the position of Wulin director, he did not seek the Seven-star swordsmanship; someone else had ordered Lin Xiaotian's assassination to acquire the technique. Just as Gu Yue was about to kill Lin Fang, Xiahou Ying unexpectedly arrived, cutting the curtain that bound Lin Fang. Lin Fang fell, gasping for air but unharmed.
Overpowered by Xiahou Ying, Gu Yue fled the inn. Xiahou Ying pursued him, pressing for the identity of the true mastermind behind Lin Xiaotian's death, but Gu Yue was suddenly assassinated by a hidden killer from a distance. During the mission to suppress the Green Dragon remnants, Zhan Qinghong accidentally killed Li Muxi, which plunged her into deep guilt. Li Muxi's apprentice, Huo Yang, immediately sought revenge, attacking Zhan Qinghong.
Wen You quickly intervened, saving Zhan Qinghong and capturing Huo Yang. Meanwhile, Feng Bufei reported Gu Yue's elimination to his mysterious superior, who then instructed Feng Bufei to continue searching for the Seven-star swordsmanship. Five days later, Zhan Qinghong finally regained consciousness, much to Lin Fang's relief.
Wen You also rushed to her side, bringing Renshen Wushen Xuming San, a restorative medicine prepared by Wen Rou, and urged Zhan Qinghong to be more careful in the future, reminding her that his sorrow knew no bounds when she was injured. Zhan Qinghong noticed Wen You's unshaven appearance, highlighting his deep concern. She also remembered hearing him plead, "Don't die, you haven't married me yet," before she passed out.
Upon learning that Huo Yang had been on a hunger strike for days, Zhan Qinghong visited him in his cell. She provoked him into a duel, offering to release him if he won, while he would have to become her apprentice if he lost. Xiao Lan, Zhan Qinghong's maid, secretly planned to give Huo Yang laxatives to ensure her mistress's victory.
However, she mistakenly swapped the medicine with Wen You's nourishing Renshen Wushen Xuming San, which, to everyone's surprise, invigorated Huo Yang, making him stronger during the fight. During the duel, Zhan Qinghong introduced herself as the "Cloud Attacking Fairy" and right-hand guardian of the Wulin Director. Despite the unintentional "tonic," Zhan Qinghong ultimately won.
She expressed compassion for Huo Yang, acknowledging his talent and trying to persuade him to join their cause, explaining that the current Wulin they were building was different from the corrupt past that caused his family's misfortune. She offered to take him to a place, promising to release him if he remained unconvinced. Xiahou Ying and Wen You were summoned back to Jun'an.
Lin Fang, now accompanied by Zhan Qinghong, planned to travel to Linzhou to address the growing power of the Zhou family. He confided in Xiahou Ying about his feelings for Zhan Qinghong, wondering if things would be different if he had met her first and regretting his inability to openly express his emotions like Qiu An. Xiahou Ying advised him that the timing of their meeting was less important than whether her heart truly belonged to him.
It was then revealed by a subordinate that Lin Fang was afflicted with a rare poison, indicated by "bloody patches on his arm," which intensified with strong emotions, particularly love. The poison attacked the heart whenever his emotions surged. Lin Fang confirmed this, recalling his severe pain at Gu Yan's death and upon learning the truth about his father's murder.
The subordinate concluded that to mitigate the agonizing pain of the poison, Lin Fang needed to control his emotions and detach himself from love. Lin Fang, faced with this harsh reality, mused that fate had perhaps ordained him to live without emotional distractions. Because of this, he was unable to express his true feelings for Zhan Qinghong.
Episode 14 Recap
Shen Yanzhi returned and informed Lin Fang that the poison in his body was linked to his emotions. If his heart wavered, the pain would become unbearable, severely intensifying when his emotions swelled, essentially forcing him to cut off all affection. Hearing this, Lin Fang became disheartened, believing it was fate’s design and that even without Wen You, he still couldn't be with Zhan Qinghong, stating they simply weren't destined to be together.
Shen Yanzhi provided him with a Linglong ball, filled with calming ingredients, and advised meditation for emotional control. Wen You, also present, assured Lin Fang that he would find expert doctors upon returning to the capital to cure his poison. Zhan Qinghong and her new student, Huo Yang, traveled to Qiu Family Fort. They discovered through records that the Fengling Huo Family had been annihilated by the Yi Xuan and Green Dragon gangs.
Huo Yang, upon realizing Li Muxi had lied to him and used him as a pawn, acknowledged his past mistakes and accepted Zhan Qinghong as his master. Wen You sternly warned Huo Yang not to betray Zhan Qinghong, to which Huo Yang retorted with a warning to Wen You not to hurt Zhan Qinghong's feelings. Xiao Lan, delighted by the unusual alliance, encouraged everyone to get along for Zhan Qinghong’s safety.
Qiu An later sent back the jade pendant he had taken from Zhan Qinghong, along with a letter declaring his intention to compete fairly with Wen You for Zhan Qinghong's affection. He had initially planned to show Zhan Qinghong a beautiful sunset view and propose, but Wen You had taken her away first.
Wen You meticulously arranged a romantic setting at the restaurant at Bower Slope, then sent a flying blade with an invitation to Zhan Qinghong for a "death pact" there, which turned out to be a love letter. Under the moon, Wen You swore an oath of eternal love, pledging to cherish only Zhan Qinghong for the rest of his life and never to let her down.
He also promised to inform his parents and have his father formally propose to her. He presented her with a jade bracelet as a token of their commitment. Zhan Qinghong, although joyful, felt overwhelmed by the suddenness of his proposal. She wanted to give him her own jade pendant in return, but it was unstrung.
She took it back, promising to thread it with a knot and give it to him as her answer, to which Wen You insisted she must make it herself. Zhan Qinghong sought out Lin Fang, sharing her conflicted feelings and asking if she liked Wen You enough. Lin Fang reassured her that her feelings were sufficient, but her words stirred his own emotions.
Xiao Lan, eavesdropping outside, confronted Lin Fang, questioning why he wouldn't express his true feelings to Zhan Qinghong. Lin Fang, however, vehemently denied any romantic interest in Zhan Qinghong, asserting that he never had, currently had not, and never would have such feelings for her. After Xiao Lan left, he mused aloud that he wished he could truly forget his feelings. That night, Zhan Qinghong struggled to knot a string for the jade pendant.
Realizing her lack of skill in needlework, she decided to seek Lin Fang’s guidance. Lin Fang began to patiently teach her, guiding her hands. However, as Zhan Qinghong leaned closer, her beauty and proximity triggered his poison, causing him immense pain. He abruptly pushed her away, angrily calling her "stupid" and ordering her to leave so as not to disturb his peace. Annoyed, Zhan Qinghong left.
Before Wen You departed for Jun'an, Zhan Qinghong successfully presented him with the jade pendant, now properly strung. With this exchange, they formalized their engagement, and she promised to wait for his return to marry her. In the following days, Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang finalized their affairs in the current region, preparing for their journey to Linzhou. Qiu An, having witnessed Wen You's devotion when she was injured, accepted Zhan Qinghong’s decision, though with a hint of sadness.
As a farewell, he gave Zhan Qinghong a golden hairpin, an heirloom from his mother, instructing her to use it as a sign if she ever faced difficulties, promising to come to her aid no matter the distance. Lin Fang's group embarked on their long journey and eventually arrived in Linzhou, a city renowned for its picturesque scenery and vibrant atmosphere, which greatly impressed Zhan Qinghong and Xiao Lan.
Linzhou's intricate network of waterways made it a prosperous hub, earning it the reputation of thriving by water. The local Family Zhou's water escorting service was considered unique in the entire Xiao Empire. Upon their arrival at Blessing Inn, which Lin Fang would later reveal was one of his family's many properties used to gather Wulin intelligence, they were met by Zhong Buming, the butler of Family Zhou.
Zhong Buming, acting on behalf of his master Zhou Bo, presented lavish gifts but politely declined any alliance with the Wulin Alliance, stating that Family Zhou had no interest in martial arts affairs. He further insinuated that Zhou Bo was currently occupied with women on a pleasure boat, where men were not permitted. Shen Yanzhi, observing Zhong Buming, quickly deduced he was a master of poison, a skill evident despite his attempts to conceal it.
Lin Fang acknowledged Family Zhou’s deep roots in the martial arts world, vast wealth, and extensive network of thirty-five escorting businesses across the Xiao Empire, noting their high public reputation due to past disaster relief efforts. Considering Zhou Bo’s reputation as Linzhou’s most handsome man and his penchant for beauty, Lin Fang proposed a plan: one of them would disguise themselves as a dancer to meet Zhou Bo.
Shen Yanzhi and Zhan Qinghong both refused this task, but Xiao Lan eagerly volunteered. Meanwhile, Feng Bufei met with Zhong Buming, relaying orders from "the boss" to closely monitor Lin Fang, as the seven-star swordsmanship might be in his possession. Feng Bufei also expressed his personal desire to capture Lin Fang and turn him into a "pretty doll," sparking an argument with Zhong Buming, who warned him against interfering with "the boss'" plans.
Their heated exchange ended with Feng Bufei collapsing, apparently poisoned by Zhong Buming. Later, Zhan Qinghong was attempting to compose a letter to Wen You, missing him already. Lin Fang, witnessing her struggle, offered to help. When she inquired about the most reliable way to send her letter, Lin Fang casually revealed that Wulin Rumors, the widespread source of martial arts news, was also his enterprise, explaining that he established inns and restaurants across various regions to covertly collect intelligence.
Surprised by this revelation, Zhan Qinghong then noticed a broken sword Lin Fang carried and boldly asked for it. Lin Fang readily agreed, not only giving her the sword but also presenting her with a jade thumb ring.
Episode 15 Recap
Xiao Lan, dressed meticulously, traveled by boat with Zhan Qinghong to the Zhou family manor, intending to infiltrate their dance party and monitor Zhou Bo. Back at their inn, Huo Yang expressed concern for Xiao Lan, but Lin Fang assured him, believing both women were clever and would face no danger. Huo Yang subtly acknowledged Lin Fang’s affection for Xiao Lan, saying it was evident he held feelings for her, which Lin Fang admitted.
Lin Fang also expressed confidence that while their methods might be unconventional, they would surely succeed in meeting Zhou Bo. At the opulent party, Zhan Qinghong observed the many women vying for Zhou Bo’s attention, realizing he enjoyed the spectacle. She resolved that her Zhan Family was not to be trifled with. To clear a path for Xiao Lan, Zhan Qinghong swiftly used her light-body skill, gracefully displacing the surrounding dancers.
She then dramatically smashed a table in front of Zhou Bo, scattering everyone in fright. Xiao Lan seized the opportunity to approach, but Zhou Bo, despite her efforts, showed no interest in her. Instead, his attention was solely captivated by Zhan Qinghong. Zhou Bo told Zhan Qinghong he found her special and liked her.
When she suggested he behave to secure a meeting with Lin Fang, Zhou Bo confidently stated no one who came to him would ever dare kill him. Zhan Qinghong also tried to subtly show her jade ring to Zhou Bo, but he completely ignored it. Zhan Qinghong, desiring privacy, asked Xiao Lan to step outside. Zhou Bo then provocatively asked Zhan Qinghong to compare his looks to Lin Fang’s, knowing Lin Fang was famed as Jiangdong's most handsome.
Zhan Qinghong retorted that everyone knew Lin Fang was the most beautiful, so there was no need to ask. Ignoring the business at hand, Zhou Bo offered a better jade if Zhan Qinghong would declare him more handsome. He then brazenly proposed that a kiss from Zhan Qinghong would secure a meeting with Lin Fang. Zhan Qinghong branded him a "sleazy fellow," a label Zhou Bo readily embraced.
Finally, Zhou Bo informed Xiao Lan to relay a message to Lin Fang: he would meet, but only if Lin Fang presented Zhan Qinghong to him as a gift. Upon returning to the inn, Xiao Lan angrily reported Zhou Bo’s refusal to cooperate without Zhan Qinghong as a "gift." Zhan Qinghong confirmed the outrageous demand. Lin Fang, initially surprised, quickly accepted it was true. Zhan Qinghong, furious, declared she could kill Zhou Bo.
Xiao Lan, still smarting from Zhou Bo’s disinterest, complained that despite her elaborate preparations, Zhou Bo had not found her attractive. Huo Yang, with a hint of jealousy, scoffed that she "lacked charm." Xiao Lan, enraged, stormed off, prompting Lin Fang to instruct Huo Yang to apologize, which he promptly did by chasing after her. Once alone, Lin Fang asked Zhan Qinghong for the jade ring.
She reiterated that she had tried to display it prominently, but Zhou Bo had ignored it. She then pressed Lin Fang for the reason behind his strange instruction. Lin Fang revealed that Zhou Bo had given him the ring years ago at his father’s funeral, promising that when Lin Fang became the Wulin clan's director, he should bring the ring to Linzhou to meet him. Zhan Qinghong was astonished that they were old acquaintances.
Lin Fang confessed Zhou Bo had never explained why he wanted the meeting. He then posed a question to Zhan Qinghong: if someone failed to keep a promise, what could be the reasons? She offered two possibilities: either they forgot, or they were unable to fulfill it. Lin Fang then suggested that, following Zhou Bo’s condition, they should send Zhan Qinghong to him.
Zhan Qinghong vehemently refused, declaring she could not betray Wen You and suggested Lin Fang offer himself instead. Meanwhile, Princess Hua Yao and Wen Rou eagerly awaited the return of Wen You and Xiahou Ying outside the city. Hua Yao impatiently fretted over Wen You’s delayed arrival, while Wen Rou quietly wondered if he had lost weight.
When Wen You and Xiahou Ying finally arrived, Hua Yao, full of enthusiasm, rushed to greet Wen You, who responded with polite formality, stating he needed to report back to the court. As he prepared to leave, Wen Rou offered Xiahou Ying a blessing sachet, explaining it contained invigorating herbs to prevent heatstroke in the summer. Xiahou Ying politely declined, suggesting she address him as "Uncle" due to their seniority.
He then recited a short verse about different colored flowers and explicitly stated his preferred color was green, leaving Wen Rou puzzled. She wondered if he disliked blue and genuinely favored green, resolving to make him a new sachet in his preferred color. Hua Yao, upset by Wen You's distant demeanor, complained to Wen Rou, recalling their mutual understanding before his departure. Her grandfather, Wang Dun, arrived and, seeing her distress, inferred it was related to Wen You.
Hua Yao confessed her disappointment at Wen You’s coldness after their previous bond. Wang Dun, to appease her, revealed he had already requested the Emperor to grant a marriage between Hua Yao and Wen You. Hua Yao was overjoyed by the news. The next day, Lin Fang reiterated his stance, insisting that sending Zhan Qinghong to Zhou Bo was a matter of "righteousness for Wulin" to eliminate hidden dangers. Zhan Qinghong angrily retorted, accusing him of bullying a defenseless woman.
Just as her frustration peaked, Zhan Podi and Su Qianhong, her parents, along with her siblings, unexpectedly arrived in Linzhou. Her father immediately questioned Lin Fang’s treatment of his daughter. Lin Fang apologized, claiming he was joking, and Su Qianhong playfully diffused the tension. Zhan Podi, noting Lin Fang’s resemblance to his late father, Lin Xiaotian, and his position as Wulin clan's director, acknowledged his potential. He then instructed his other children to greet the director.
Lin Fang suggested they rest. Su Qianhong urged them to treat the inn, which belonged to Lin Fang, as their own home. Zhan Qinghong’s parents continued to use her childhood nickname "Meinu" (beauty slave), which she found embarrassing now that she was a protector. Her mother agreed to call her "Hong'er" instead. Her parents, despite initially claiming to be merely passing through, expressed heartfelt concern for her well-being and praised her growing maturity and heroic demeanor.
Lin Fang, sensing the unusual timing of the Zhan family’s arrival, instructed Shen Yanzhi to closely monitor both the Zhou and Zhan families. He believed Zhan Podi's sudden reappearance after ten years of reclusion was suspicious but affirmed he would not implicate Zhan Qinghong in her father's past affairs. Later, Zhan Podi tested Zhan Qinghong’s martial arts in the courtyard. Her skills had improved considerably, forcing him to use more effort than expected to fight her to a draw.
He praised her increased strength but questioned her use of a heavy sword. Zhan Qinghong explained that Xiahou Ying had taught her to apply light-sword techniques to a heavy sword to further refine her skills. Zhan Podi recognized Xiahou Ying, playfully teasing his wife about Xiahou Ying’s past affections for her, and then jokingly attributed Zhan Qinghong’s heavy sword technique to Xiahou Ying. Su Qianhong intervened, ushering them inside for tea.
While inside, Xiao Lan delivered a letter to Zhan Qinghong, explaining that "Wulin Insights," Lin Fang’s intelligence network, was remarkably efficient. Zhan Qinghong’s siblings tried to snatch the letter, teasing her about a love letter. She finally revealed it was from Wen You, confessing that they had exchanged commitment presents – her jade for his bracelet – and that he intended to propose marriage to her parents.
Su Qianhong and Zhan Podi, shocked, barraged her with questions about Wen You's age, family background, character, martial arts skills, and how he treated her, causing a blushing Zhan Qinghong to flee. Concurrently, Wen You returned home and reported to his father, Wen Qiao, about his successful mission in Cang Wu, crediting Lin Fang’s intelligence and leadership. Wen Qiao urged him to abandon Wulin affairs and return to public service.
Wen You argued that the Jiangdong Wulin was in turmoil, Lin Fang's position as director was not yet stable, and he believed he could benefit the people even while serving in Wulin. Wen Qiao explained that his intention in allowing Wen You to train in martial arts was for him to gain life experience before entering politics, but now it was time for him to accept his family responsibilities.
Wen You then nervously announced his desire to marry a girl he deeply loved, describing her as pure, kind, and sincere, someone he wanted to spend his life with. His mother, Wen Rou, seemed amenable, but Wen Qiao sternly demanded her name. Wen You revealed she was Zhan Qinghong, daughter of Zhan Podi of Zhan Family Villa, and a protector of the Wulin clan's director.
His parents were aghast, reminding him of his supposed affection for Princess Hua Yao and their shared childhood. Wen You vehemently denied any interest in Hua Yao, reaffirming his love for Qinghong. Wen Qiao erupted in fury, denouncing Zhan Qinghong as a "commoner from the martial world" and questioning how their gentry family could marry such a person, fearing it would ruin their reputation in Jun'an.
Wen You insisted on his mutual love with Qinghong and their exchange of commitment tokens. However, Wen Qiao harshly rebuked him for arranging a marriage without parental consent or a matchmaker, forbidding the union. Wen You, devastated, knelt in desperation. Later that night, Zhan Podi secretly visited Lin Fang. Lin Fang offered him tea from Yunding mountain, to which Zhan Podi noted the need to abandon formalities. Zhan Podi stated he had the former Wulin clan's director's final instructions.
He recounted Lin Xiaotian's death during a surprise attack by the Xi Yan army the night before the last great battle. Lin Xiaotian, severely wounded, instructed Zhan Podi to prioritize the overall situation and to protect the "Seven-star swordsmanship" and pass it to the next director, specifically asking to protect "Fang." Lin Fang silently noted the discrepancy with Gu Yue's prior account, which implied Gu Yue's responsibility for his father's death.
Zhan Podi claimed he did not know who attacked Lin Xiaotian, only finding him already severely injured. Lin Fang questioned why Zhan Podi had vanished for so many years with such a crucial item without investigation. Zhan Podi reiterated he was simply following orders to safeguard the swordsmanship, never expecting Lin Fang, Lin Xiaotian’s son, to become the new director. He asserted he would have told Lin Fang what he needed to know regardless.
Lin Fang deduced that Zhan Podi had possessed the Seven-star swordsmanship all along. Zhan Podi then handed the manual over to Lin Fang, fulfilling his late friend’s dying wish. He advised Lin Fang to seek out all those involved in the past events to piece together the truth behind his father’s murder. Lin Fang then asked Zhan Podi about Zhou Bo.
Zhan Podi recalled Zhou Bo as a guard under Lin Xiaotian during the war and inquired about Lin Fang’s interest, but Lin Fang dismissed the question, suggesting Zhan Podi rest. As Zhan Podi left, Lin Fang examined the Seven-star swordsmanship. Shen Yanzhi asked if this meant Zhan Podi was now cleared of suspicion, but Lin Fang remained cautious, questioning the authenticity of the manual.
An individual with peculiar, monkey-like movements, later revealed to be Feng Bufei, was seen eavesdropping outside and fled when detected by Zhan Podi’s keen senses. Feng Bufei immediately reported to Zhong Buming that Zhan Podi possessed the Seven-star swordsmanship. Zhong Buming, intrigued, ordered his "boss" to come to Linzhou and declared his intention to set a "trap to catch a turtle in a jar." The following morning, Lin Fang received an invitation from the Zhou family.
The invitation specifically requested the presence of both Lin Fang and "Headman Zhan" (Zhan Podi). Shen Yanzhi expressed suspicion, noting Zhou Bo’s previous refusal to meet and the sudden inclusion of Zhan Podi. She worried about an ulterior motive. Lin Fang, however, decided that they must accept the invitation, stating they could not disappoint Zhou Bo.
Episode 16 Recap
Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong, accompanied by Xiao Lan and Huo Yang, arrived at the Zhou Manor for their meeting. Zhou Bo expressed his surprise that the head of the Zhan Family was not Zhan Podi himself. He then reiterated his request to have Zhan Qinghong, but Lin Fang firmly declined, stating that Zhan Qinghong was his most cherished subordinate and he would not force her into anything she didn't want.
Xiao Lan then offered herself, but Huo Yang's expression darkened at her words, clearly showing jealousy. Meanwhile, Zhan family disciples who remained at the inn inquired about Wen You from Shen Yanzhi, who subtly indicated that Zhan Qinghong's parents seemed to favor Lin Fang over Wen You. Later, Zhou Bo again proposed a collaboration, contingent on Lin Fang handing over Zhan Qinghong. Lin Fang, seeing through Zhou Bo's intention to subtly imprison them, outwardly agreed to stay the night.
That evening, Lin Fang questioned Zhan Qinghong about her thoughts on the strange atmosphere at the Zhou Manor. Zhan Qinghong detailed several suspicious points: Zhou Bo's lack of reaction to Lin Fang's token, his excessively warm demeanor, and his expectation for Zhan Podi to be the one attending the meeting. They concluded that these oddities were likely linked to a significant event from ten years ago.
Zhan Qinghong wanted to investigate personally, but Lin Fang, concerned for her safety, instructed her to remain by his side as his personal guard, dispatching Xiao Lan and Huo Yang to conduct the investigation instead. Unbeknownst to them, Zhong Buming, disguised as a butler, was the true mastermind controlling Zhou Bo. He had instructed Feng Bufei to lure Zhan Podi to the Zhou Manor, confident that with Zhan Podi there, he could acquire the Seven-star swordsmanship.
Despite Lin Fang's instructions, Zhan Qinghong asked Huo Yang to protect Lin Fang, while she secretly slipped into Zhou Bo's study to search for a hidden room. After a thorough but fruitless search for a secret switch, she unexpectedly found a military report. The contents of the report visibly shocked Zhan Qinghong. Back in Lin Fang's room, a stern-faced Lin Fang and Huo Yang created a tense atmosphere.
Xiao Lan, misinterpreting the situation, believed Huo Yang had made a grave mistake and immediately knelt to apologize to Lin Fang, unaware that Lin Fang was actually upset about Zhan Qinghong's reckless actions. Upon her return, Zhan Qinghong handed the military report to Lin Fang. The report explicitly stated that Zhan Podi had murdered Lin Xiaotian ten years prior to seize the Seven-star swordsmanship.
Witnessing Lin Fang's doubts, Zhan Qinghong adamantly declared her father's innocence and resolved to find evidence to prove the report was a fabrication. She returned to the study for further investigation and overheard a conversation between Zhong Buming and Zhou Bo, discovering that Zhou Bo was being controlled by Zhong Buming through poison and was acting as an intelligence hub for Xi Yan.
When Zhou Bo discovered her presence, Zhan Qinghong quickly fled, unaware that her discovery was merely part of Zhong Buming and Zhou Bo's elaborate scheme. Fleeing the study, Zhan Qinghong encountered Lin Fang. Seeing Zhou Bo approaching, Lin Fang pulled Zhan Qinghong close by a tree and began a dramatic declaration of love. However, the straightforward Zhan Qinghong immediately stated her affection for Wen You.
At that moment, Zhou Bo stepped forward, revealing Zhong Buming's true identity as the "Thousand-hand poison king" of Xi Yan and his own plight of being poisoned and controlled. He desperately pleaded with Lin Fang for help, revealing that Zhong Buming intended to control Lin Fang to seize power over Jiangdong. Lin Fang then questioned Zhou Bo about the true circumstances of his father's death.
Zhou Bo confirmed that it was Zhan Podi who killed Lin Xiaotian for the Seven-star swordsmanship, elaborating that the evidence, a military report, was hidden in a flowerpot in his study and bore General Wei Wu Xiao Daoran's military stamp. This revelation led to a heated argument between Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang.
Zhan Qinghong dismissed the report as a Xi Yan fabrication designed to frame her father, questioning the credibility of Zhou Bo's claims given the manor was a Xi Yan intelligence outpost. Lin Fang, however, pressed on, asking why Zhan Podi would be framed if he already had a tarnished reputation. The two parted ways in disagreement. Zhou Bo later reported to Zhong Buming that Lin Fang had "taken the bait."
Zhong Buming instructed Zhou Bo to proceed with the plan to lure Zhan Podi to the manor. Separately, Zhou Bo met with Lin Fang to finalize their "deal": Zhou Bo would help Lin Fang eliminate Zhan Podi, his father's murderer, and in return, Lin Fang would help Zhou Bo escape Zhong Buming's control. Lin Fang agreed to the terms, expressing a chilling indifference to his personal vendetta.
The next morning, Zhou Bo found Zhan Podi and tricked him into entering the Zhou Manor under the pretense of Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang being in danger, specifically directing him to the west corner gate. Separately, Zhan Qinghong, noticing Zhou Bo's Xi Yan tattoo, confronted him. He revealed his true identity as A-Liu, a Xi Yan assassin.
A-Liu explained that he was tasked with impersonating the real Zhou Bo (whom they had killed) and marrying his fiancée, Xiu, to take over the Zhou family's existing escort business and use it as an intelligence network for Xi Yan's Valiant Hall. However, A-Liu fell genuinely in love with Xiu, wishing to abandon his identity as a dead soldier and live as Zhou Bo. Fearing exposure, Zhong Buming murdered Xiu in A-Liu's absence.
Despite Xiu knowing his true identity, she professed her love for him before she died. A-Liu, though remorseful, remained committed to his mission, claiming he was indeed a bad guy. Meanwhile, Huo Yang and Xiao Lan were incapacitated by tranquilizing smoke. Zhan Podi, having been lured to the study, found Lin Fang waiting for him. Lin Fang confronted Zhan Podi, accusing him of killing Lin Xiaotian.
Zhan Podi, realizing it was a setup, vehemently denied the accusations, only then noticing he had been poisoned. Zhou Bo then joined in, reiterating the false claims and implicating Zhan Podi in a plot to steal the Seven-star swordsmanship. As Zhan Podi succumbed to the poison, Zhong Buming appeared, demanding the Seven-star swordsmanship and threatening Zhan Qinghong's life to coerce Zhan Podi. He then ordered his guards to bring Zhan Qinghong out.
Episode 17 Recap
The episode began in the midst of a fierce battle at the Zhou Family residence. Zhong Buming's plans were thwarted when Zhan Qinghong unexpectedly joined the fray, and Lin Fang and Zhan Podi, previously thought to be incapacitated by poison, recovered. By the time Zhong Buming realized A-Liu’s betrayal, it was too late. Cornered, Zhong Buming demanded Zhan Podi surrender the Seven-star swordsmanship, threatening his life. Zhan Podi defiantly refused, swearing he would die before handing it over.
Zhong Buming then called for Zhan Qinghong to be brought forth, but she appeared unharmed, assuring her father she was well. She explained that Lin Fang’s supposed stab wound was a pre-arranged trick with a hidden mechanism, while Lin Fang added that the poison had been replaced, signifying Zhong Buming's impending demise. During the conflict, Shen Yanzhi led her forces into the Zhou residence to confront Feng Bufei.
Overwhelmed by Zhan Podi, Zhong Buming and Feng Bufei were forced to retreat. As they fled, Zhong Buming launched hidden darts. A-Liu, stepping in front of Lin Fang to shield him, was struck and mortally wounded. Even Shen Yanzhi’s skills could not save him. In his final moments, Zhou Bo (A-Liu’s alias) took Zhan Qinghong's hand and placed it in Lin Fang’s, urging her to cherish the person by her side.
He also requested to be buried with Xiu beneath a specific flower, a wish that was honored. Misinterpreting Zhou Bo’s dying words, Zhan Qinghong later penned a letter to Wen You expressing her feelings of longing. Later, she confronted Lin Fang, demanding a complete account of the battle at the Zhou Family, stating she would not let the matter rest without a clear explanation. Lin Fang, acknowledging Zhan Qinghong's persistence, revealed the full truth.
He confessed that he and A-Liu had been in communication and that he knew A-Liu was from the West Yan Kingdom. He had instructed A-Liu to deliver a secret message to Shen Yanzhi, inquiring about the "Golden Toad," to confirm his allegiance when seeking Zhan Podi's help.
Lin Fang explained that he deduced A-Liu's true identity from his West Yan custom of touching noses to show affection, his lack of reaction to a specific token meant for the real Zhou Bo, and his showboating to Zhan Qinghong during a banquet. A-Liu, in turn, had revealed his true goal was to kill Zhong Buming, aligning with Lin Fang's objectives.
Lin Fang had kept Zhan Qinghong unaware to deceive Zhong Buming into believing his scheme had succeeded, causing him to drop his guard and not suspect Zhan Podi's feigned cooperation. After explaining everything, Zhan Qinghong remained angry about Lin Fang's secrecy and demanded an apology. Lin Fang expressed his regret for causing her worry, and she, in turn, apologized for slapping him. Zhan Podi then suggested they all rest, and he and his wife prepared to depart.
Zhan Qinghong questioned why she was excluded from the plan, and her father playfully suggested it was to prevent her from revealing secrets. Her mother interjected, explaining that Lin Fang simply wanted to protect her from danger, a sentiment she shared. After the successful operation, Zhan Podi and his family left the inn. Lin Fang pledged to Zhan Qinghong’s parents that he would ensure her safety.
They affectionately teased her about Lin Fang, mentioning the special "fried bacon with ice lotus" private dish they would make for him, a privilege she didn’t enjoy. They reminded her of her duties as a guardian to Lin Fang, urging her to be responsible, avoid reckless actions, and follow his instructions. They bid a fond farewell, promising to reunite. Meanwhile, Xiahou Ying visited Wen Rou, seeking her help for Lin Fang, who was afflicted by an unknown poison.
Xiahou Ying described the poison's progression: a bloodstain on Lin Fang's left arm that traveled along the hand's lesser Yin heart meridian, from the Shaochong to the Shenmen point, gradually moving towards his heart, and would be fatal once it reached the Jiquan point. The poison was exacerbated by strong emotions, causing severe chest pain and weakness. Wen Rou admitted she had never encountered such a rare poison but promised to investigate for a few days to find a cure.
Before Xiahou Ying left, he returned a flower message he believed was from her, stating he needed to clearly reject her feelings in person to avoid further complications, citing their age difference. Wen Rou clarified that the flower message wasn't from her but was mistakenly left in a pastry box, so he had rejected someone else's affection. She refused his rejection and, using Lin Fang’s illness as leverage, insisted he accept a pouch she had made, filled with refreshing herbs.
Xiahou Ying accepted the pouch, entrusting Lin Fang’s treatment to her. The flower message incident inadvertently led Princess Hua Yao to misunderstand Wen You's feelings. Prompted by Wen Rou, Wen You visited Hua Yao to clarify. He explained that his preference for the red cake was due to a promise to Zhan Qinghong after losing a sword match, not an expression of love for Hua Yao.
He reiterated that he saw Hua Yao only as a sister and his heart belonged solely to Zhan Qinghong, stating he would marry no one else. Hua Yao was heartbroken, revealing that she had already arranged for Prime Minister Wang to seek an imperial decree for their marriage, leaving little room for reversal. Wen You desperately pleaded with her to ask the Emperor to withdraw the decree, leaving Hua Yao in agony.
Elsewhere, Wang Bucheng, Zhong Buming, and Feng Bufei regrouped. It was revealed that their retreat from the Zhou Family was a calculated move. Wang Bucheng commended their plan, while Feng Bufei grumbled about Zhong Buming's mistakes and implied he might be demoted. Wang Bucheng, their leader, dismissed their losses, stating that abandoning the Weiwu Hall was a necessary sacrifice for greater objectives, and that compared to acquiring the Seven-star swordsmanship, everything else was insignificant.
Wen Rou, claiming that Dendrobium candidum was scarce, invited Xiahou Ying to accompany her to gather herbs. Xiahou Ying found it peculiar that the common herb was unavailable in Jun’an. He later discovered that Wen Rou had purchased all the Dendrobium candidum herself, her true intention being to spend time with him, a fact confirmed when a maid accidentally revealed it.
Enraged, Xiahou Ying confronted Wen Rou, accusing her of being a negligent pharmacist by hoarding medicine and toying with him. Wen Rou, frightened by his anger, tearfully confessed her genuine affection, asserting her bravery in expressing her feelings. Xiahou Ying, however, dismissed her as childish, implying she saw him merely as a coveted prize. Overwhelmed, Wen Rou fled. She then encountered Wen You, who was on the verge of eloping.
He declared that life without Zhan Qinghong was meaningless and he was prepared to give up everything for her. Despite initial worries about the imperial decree's impact on the Wen Family, Wen Rou supported her brother's pursuit of love. She confided in him about Xiahou Ying’s sudden fury, describing him as a changed man.
Wen You advised her to sincerely apologize to Xiahou Ying, assuring her that beneath his stern exterior, he was a reasonable and gentle man who would not hold a grudge. Simultaneously, Shen Yanzhi uncovered the authentic military report at Zhou Bo’s house. Lin Fang read the report, which exposed the three demons of the nether world as the murderers of his father, Lin Xiaotian, decades ago.
Consumed by rage over his unavenged father, Lin Fang's poison flared up, causing him to cough up blood. He reflected on his father's final moments, realizing his father's thoughts were still of him even as he died.
Episode 18 Recap
Knowing he could not persuade Hua Yao to break off the engagement, Wen You decided to run away from home, leaving only a letter behind. In his letter, Wen You expressed regret for being unfilial and unable to serve his parents, care for his sister, or bring honor to the Wen family, but he offered no explanation for his departure.
Wen Qiao was furious upon discovering the letter, believing his son had gone to find the woman from the martial arts world. Just then, Mr. Yu arrived with an imperial edict decreeing a marriage between Wen You and Princess Hua Yao. The edict praised Wen You's character and skills, and Princess Hua Yao's virtues, stating that Prime Minister Wang Dun would manage all wedding arrangements. Wen Qiao accepted the decree on behalf of his son.
Mr. Yu then informed Wen Qiao that Prime Minister Wang Dun required Wen You to receive the edict in person. Soon after, soldiers sent by Wang Dun surrounded the Wen family mansion, effectively placing the entire household under house arrest, ostensibly to ensure the safety of the upcoming wedding. Wen Rou met with Xiahou Ying to apologize for her past actions, confessing her genuine deep affection for him and assuring him that she would no longer pester him.
Moments after Wen Rou departed, Xiahou Ying's subordinate informed him of trouble at the Wen family. Xiahou Ying immediately rode out and found Wen You outside the city, conveying the dire situation at the Wen mansion. He explained that Prime Minister Wang Dun had surrounded the Wen family with the forbidden army, effectively placing them under house arrest.
Xiahou Ying warned that if Wen You continued to defy the imperial edict, Wang Dun would accuse him of escaping marriage, endangering the lives of his entire family. Distraught and concerned for his family's safety, Wen You had no choice but to return to Jun'an with Xiahou Ying. Meanwhile, Lin Fang received news in Linzhou about the imperial decree for Wen You's marriage to Princess Hua Yao.
His subordinate reported that the Wen family was under heavy guard, which Lin Fang believed meant Wen You had not agreed to the marriage and there was still a chance to reverse the situation. To handle the matter, Lin Fang decided he must return to Jun'an at once. He assigned Shen Yanzhi to stay in Linzhou to manage the recently acquired Zhou family businesses, instructing her to prioritize maintaining stability and to contact him regularly.
He also explicitly warned Shen Yanzhi not to reveal anything about Wen You's impending marriage to Zhan Qinghong. Upon his return home, Wen You was met with accusations from his father but declared that he would bear the consequences of defying the imperial edict alone, refusing to let the Wen family suffer for his actions.
He adamantly stated that his deep love and prior engagement with Zhan Qinghong prevented him from marrying anyone else, valuing his promise to her above the emperor's decree. His mother tearfully begged him to accept the imperial marriage to save the family from ruin, even kneeling before him. However, Wen You remained firm, helping his mother up and reiterating that he would face any punishment himself. Later, while drinking with Xiahou Ying, a remorseful Wen You lamented his predicament.
He recalled his carefree days and the beautiful moment he first saw Zhan Qinghong, "like a lotus flower emerging from the water." He admitted that he had failed her in this life and urged Xiahou Ying to treat his sister, Wen Rou, with kindness, warning him "not to be like me." Xiahou Ying expressed reservations, fearing that kindness might lead to more suffering, but Wen You fiercely disagreed, vowing to never surrender.
While Xiahou Ying went to fetch more wine, Wen You seized the opportunity to storm the imperial palace, hoping to convince the emperor to revoke the marriage edict. Princess Hua Yao, upon hearing of his reckless act, rushed to the palace gates to intercept him. She sternly warned Wen You, whom she affectionately called "Brother Zisu," that breaking into the palace was a grave offense punishable by the eradication of his entire clan.
An imperial oral instruction was then conveyed: the emperor was furious at Wen You's intrusion but, considering his impending marriage to the princess, had decided to pardon him. However, the emperor would not interfere with the wedding arrangements, which remained entirely under Prime Minister Wang Dun's authority. Wen You was ordered to leave immediately, with the warning that any defiance would result in instant execution.
Wen You returned home, only to learn from Wen Rou that his father had gone to Prime Minister Wang Dun's mansion. Rushing to the Prime Minister's residence, Wen You found Wen Qiao kneeling and desperately begging Wang Dun to cancel the marriage. Wen You interceded, insisting that he alone was to blame and that his prior engagement to Zhan Qinghong prevented him from marrying the princess. Wang Dun dismissed their pleas with mocking indifference.
He had Wen Qiao taken away to be held as a "guest" until the wedding. When Wen You furiously called him "mean," Wang Dun had him slapped. Flaunting his absolute power, Wang Dun scoffed at Wen You's engagement, deeming it meaningless compared to an imperial decree. When Wen You threatened to die rather than marry, Wang Dun coldly countered by threatening the lives of Wen You's entire family and explicitly threatening to have Zhan Qinghong executed.
Crushing Wen You's spirit, Wang Dun gave him three days to obediently marry Princess Hua Yao, leaving Wen You to collapse, utterly heartbroken and defeated. Meanwhile in Linzhou, Zhan Qinghong grew increasingly worried, having received no reply from Wen You for over half a month. Just as Lin Fang informed her of their imminent return to Jun'an, she suddenly felt dizzy and collapsed.
Shen Yanzhi, also feeling ill, quickly deduced that both she and Zhan Qinghong had been poisoned with "Zui Xian San," a latent poison from the Zhou family mansion that disperses a martial artist's inner power. She explained that the poison takes three days to activate, and any attempt to use internal energy would be fatal, leading to severe internal injuries or even death.
Shen Yanzhi's explanation made Lin Fang realize that the events at the Zhou family mansion were a trap. He concluded that the poison was specifically designed to neutralize Zhan Podi to obtain the Seven-star swordsmanship manual. As they prepared to warn Zhan Podi, it was already too late. Traveling towards Jun'an, Zhan Podi and his family were ambushed by the three demons of the Netherworld.
They demanded the swordsmanship manual, but Zhan Podi, having secretly entrusted it to Lin Fang, courageously lied that he had destroyed it. Disbelieving him but unable to find the manual, the demons murdered Zhan Podi. Watching her husband die with blood flowing from all seven orifices, his wife, Su Qianhong, was overcome with grief and took her own life by slitting her throat. Feng Bufei, one of the demons, showed a flicker of reluctance but ultimately left with the others. By the time Zhan Qinghong and her group arrived, they found the bodies of her family scattered across the ground, leaving her on the brink of collapse.
Episode 19 Recap
Zhan Qinghong was consumed by grief, surrounded by the lifeless bodies of her parents and senior brothers. She cried out to them repeatedly, but with no response, she collapsed in sorrow, clutching her parents' hands together. Xiao Lan was overwhelmed and fainted, caught by Huo Yang, while others present also had tears in their eyes. Meanwhile, Wen You sat alone in his courtyard, observed by his sister, Wen Rou.
She knew the immense sacrifices he had made for their family and sat with him in silent support. Wen You had made a clear decision: continuing his relationship with Zhan Qinghong would bring disaster upon both their families and Zhan Qinghong herself. He believed that accepting the marriage to Princess Hua Yao would ensure a bright future for his family, the Princess's happiness, and Zhan Qinghong's safety.
He resigned himself to his own broken heart, seeing it as the only cost for widespread contentment. Wen Rou expressed her concern for Zhan Qinghong, but Wen You, tragically unaware of her family's fate, believed Qinghong had many others, like Wenxuan, Qiu An, Huo Yang, and Xiao Lan, to comfort her and help her heal.
Wen Rou then reflected on the pain of separation, even as a medic accustomed to death, to which Wen You advised her that they must endure this pain together. Elsewhere, Zhong Buming and Wang Dun, part of a shadowy group, discussed how to obtain the Seven-star swordsmanship. Zhong Buming doubted that the sword manual had been destroyed, believing it too valuable to be discarded and was likely hidden.
Wang Dun then shifted their focus to Lin Fang, convinced that clues must lie with him. On the day of the wedding, Princess Hua Yao, adorned in grand attire, waited in Zhaohua Hall for Wen You to escort her. Their magnificent wedding in Jun'an drew the attention of the entire city, a vibrant spectacle of celebration. However, at Zhan Family Manor, a somber scene unfolded. Dressed in mourning, Zhan Qinghong knelt in the ancestral hall, overwhelmed by sorrow.
Seeing a bloodstained hand-rope by the tombstone, she was flooded with memories of her joyful days at the manor and of her parents and brothers, who had been with her just days before. Overcome with guilt and anguish, she began to slap her own face. Lin Fang arrived at the ancestral hall, bowing three times to pay his respects.
He returned her senior brothers' hand-ropes to Zhan Qinghong, then remained silently by her side as she knelt for a day and a night, even as a fierce storm broke. Suddenly, an idea struck Zhan Qinghong, and she rushed into the pouring rain, throwing herself towards the patch of iced orchids that Zhan Podi had personally planted for Su Qianhong. Once mischievous and destructive, she now desperately tried to protect them.
Xiao Lan and Huo Yang watched helplessly, but Lin Fang, despite his own weakening health, ran out to embrace Zhan Qinghong, comforting her and promising to protect her forever. At the House Consort, red silks hung everywhere, a picture of festivity, but the consort, Wen You, wore a vacant expression, like a puppet. Under Wang Dun's orchestrating, the wedding ceremony concluded, officially making him and Hua Yao husband and wife. Hua Yao was overjoyed, yet Wen You remained distant.
He did not enter the bridal chamber that night, instead retreating to his study where he tearfully caressed the jade pendant Zhan Qinghong had given him. He resigned himself to their fate, hoping Qinghong would forget him. A month passed, and Zhan Qinghong remained secluded in her room, writing, despite it being an activity she always detested. Lin Fang stayed by her side, though his severe poisoning worsened, finding only temporary relief from the medicine Shen Yanzhi had provided.
Huo Yang, knowing Lin Fang was with their master, consoled Xiao Lan, promising to protect her. Knowing Zhan Qinghong's deep sorrow, Lin Fang brought her to make heaven lanterns, suggesting she write her thoughts for her parents on them. Zhan Qinghong, though finding the lanterns beautiful, feared that releasing them would sever her connection to her parents. She confided in Lin Fang, asking how he coped with losing his own parents.
Lin Fang shared his philosophy that to honor the dead, one must live well. He offered words of encouragement, reminding her that "rain eventually stops and night eventually ends" and that "in the darkest place, there's always some light." This wisdom helped Zhan Qinghong realize that immersing herself in grief would not bring her loved ones back. Instead, she needed to find their killers and avenge them.
With renewed purpose, she declared her intention to seek revenge for her parents and senior brothers. Lin Fang, Xiao Lan, and Huo Yang immediately pledged their support, and they resolved to return to Jun'an the following day.
Episode 20 Recap
After his marriage to Hua Yao, Wen You's interactions with her were strictly formal, devoid of any spousal intimacy, even lacking the affection they shared in childhood. He spent his days in the study, never sharing meals or a bed with her. Hua Yao felt frustrated by this distant relationship. Her maid then informed her that Secretary Cheng intended to arrange a marriage between his widowed younger brother and Wen Rou.
Hua Yao, seeing an opportunity to earn Wen You's gratitude, rushed to tell him. Concerned about Wen Rou, Wen You hurried back to the Wen family estate, intending to stop the marriage. To his surprise, his father, Wen Qiao, had already rejected the proposal. Wen Qiao explained that he understood Wen You's sacrifice of his own happiness for the family and did not wish to further jeopardize Wen Rou's future.
Wen You was deeply moved by his father's words, who then advised him to try and make his marriage with Hua Yao work. Meanwhile, Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong returned to Lin House in Jun'an. Shen Yanzhi, through Wulin Rumors, had uncovered that the Zhan family was massacred by the three demons in the nether world, with their leader, Wang Bucheng, delivering the fatal blow.
Zhan Qinghong went to Wen House, eager to confide in Wen You, but he had just left, and they narrowly missed each other. Later, Lin Fang instructed his subordinate to keep Wen You's marriage a secret from Zhan Qinghong for the time being, given her recent profound loss. Upon Wen You's return to the House Consort, he found Lin Fang waiting for him.
Lin Fang confronted Wen You, questioning his choices and revealing that the Zhan family had been annihilated on the day of Wen You's wedding. Wen You was stunned by the news. Lin Fang sternly told him to cease all contact with Zhan Qinghong, asserting that Wen You no longer had the right to bring her joy or sorrow.
He insisted that Wen You personally inform Zhan Qinghong that their relationship was over, stating that he had previously stepped aside because of Zhan Qinghong's feelings for Wen You, but now, only he, Lin Fang, could be the one to share her happiness and sorrow. Wen You reluctantly agreed to the meeting, scheduled for sunset at Qinhuai Riverside, vowing to do anything for Zhan Qinghong's peace and happiness.
Unable to find Wen You at his family home, Zhan Qinghong returned to Lin House, looking despondent. Seeing his teacher so distraught, Huo Yang stormed into the House Consort and violently attacked Wen You. Wen You, consumed by guilt, did not retaliate. Huo Yang, remembering that Wen You was still cherished by Zhan Qinghong, did not deliver a fatal blow. Instead, he warned Wen You to sever all ties with Zhan Qinghong and departed.
Xiahou Ying was enraged when Lin Fang informed him about the Zhan family's massacre. Lin Fang explained that the attack was orchestrated for the Seven-Star Swordsmanship, revealing that his own father had also been killed by the three demons in the nether world for the same reason ten years prior. Xiahou Ying swore to avenge this deep-seated blood feud. As the evening approached, Wen You prepared to meet Zhan Qinghong, but Hua Yao intercepted him.
Noticing his injuries from Huo Yang's earlier assault, Hua Yao interrogated him about his destination and who he was meeting, suspecting Zhan Qinghong. Despite Wen You's attempts to dismiss it as a Wulin matter and assure her he could handle it, Hua Yao insisted on accompanying him or sending imperial guards.
She then feigned distress over his injuries, forcing him to return to his room, where she personally cared for him and gave him medicine, effectively preventing him from keeping his appointment with Zhan Qinghong. Meanwhile, at Qinhuai Riverside, Zhan Qinghong waited with Lin Fang. As time passed and Wen You didn't appear, she grew increasingly worried and upset, wondering if he had moved on to someone else. Lin Fang promised to help her find him.
They continued to drink, and Lin Fang reminisced about the two hundred days they had known each other, reflecting on how quickly the time had passed. Zhan Qinghong, now heavily intoxicated, lamented her family's absence and pleaded with Lin Fang not to leave her. Lin Fang promised he would always stay by her side, confessing that she had long ago made a home in his heart, despite his responsibilities for revenge and the world.
Back at Lin House, Xiao Lan, noticing Huo Yang's evasiveness and his deliberate actions to cover for Lin Fang, pressed him for the truth. Huo Yang finally confessed that Wen You had married Princess Hua Yao. Enraged and heartbroken for Zhan Qinghong, Xiao Lan threatened to confront Wen You. Huo Yang restrained her, explaining that he had already beaten Wen You, who did not resist, seemingly burdened by his own hardships.
He also warned Xiao Lan not to interfere with Lin Fang's plans, which Xiao Lan mistakenly believed involved Lin Fang marrying Zhan Qinghong as an act of revenge. Huo Yang clarified that Lin Fang simply stated he would handle things. Xiao Lan reluctantly accepted this, but not before extracting a promise from Huo Yang to always be transparent with her and to never betray her as Wen You had.
As Zhan Qinghong became completely unconscious, Lin Fang tenderly carried her home on his back. Along the way, a playful Zhan Qinghong bit his ear, causing Lin Fang to blush deeply as he silently continued the journey. The next morning, Zhan Qinghong awoke dizzy and with no recollection of the previous night. Before she could process anything, an imperial decree arrived.
The decree appointed Lin Fang as General of Manifest Might, recognizing his achievements in stabilizing Cang Wu and Linzhou, and awarded him one hundred taels of gold. Zhan Qinghong was named General Guerrilla for her assistance and granted fifty taels of gold. Both were immediately ordered to depart for Mianyang to lead the Jiangdong Wulin in suppressing the rebel Du Zeng and defending the country. Lin Fang accepted the decree.
Zhan Qinghong, however, was filled with reluctance, saddened that she would be leaving Jun'an without having seen Wen You. Sensing her unspoken thoughts, Lin Fang instructed Huo Yang to prepare their luggage for immediate departure. Separately, Wen You requested to join the expedition to Mianyang as the Deputy Leader of Wulin. However, Wang Dun, the Prime Minister, firmly rejected his plea.
He reminded Wen You that as a consort, he could not risk his life or associate with Wulin members, as it would dishonor Princess Hua Yao. Wen You, acknowledging his misjudgment, apologized. Recognizing Wen You's patriotic spirit, Wang Dun instead appointed him as a court attendant, tasking him with representing the emperor in saluting the Wulin forces as they departed. At the city gates, Wen You finally encountered Zhan Qinghong.
She gazed at him with love, but as the drums ceased, he slowly walked past her, seemingly ignoring her, a voiceover reminding her that he was now a high-ranking official and she should not overstep.
Episode 21 Recap
Wen You offered a farewell toast, first to Lin Fang, then three cups to Zhan Qinghong. He wished her victory in every battle, peace and good health, and a triumphant return as soon as possible. As the time for departure approached, Zhan Qinghong looked at Wen You, attempting to speak to him several times, but he remained silent, unable to meet her gaze. With tears in her eyes, she bade him farewell and followed Lin Fang.
Wen You, held back by Xiahou Ying, watched silently as Zhan Qinghong rode away, regretting that he had sent off and ended his relationship with his beloved with his own hands. He felt there was no turning back in his life. Xiahou Ying cautioned Wen You, reminding him that as the son-in-law of the emperor, he should not overstep the rules, especially with the Princess.
Wen You, however, felt that losing his beloved was far more significant than a little royal embarrassment and lamented that he still owed her a proper goodbye. As they rode, Lin Fang gently reminded Zhan Qinghong, now a general, not to shed tears in front of others. She claimed it was just sand in her eye. Lin Fang explained that despite being martial artists, they answered the emperor's edict to serve the great world.
He then began humming a tune, encouraging her to forget her pain. Meanwhile, Wen You, atop a mountain, practiced his sword, his tears falling like scattered petals. He reflected on his past with Zhan Qinghong, lamenting that their paths had diverged forever, like two parallel lines. Later, a despondent Xiahou Ying drowned his sorrows in drink, still haunted by the Zhan Family tragedy.
Wen Rou brought him medicine for his hangover and listened as he recounted his past affection for his senior martial sister, Su Qianhong. She understood his deep regret over Su Qianhong's death. Xiahou Ying wondered if her death could have been avoided if he hadn't flinched. Wen Rou, a doctor accustomed to life and death, gently advised him to cherish the present moment to avoid future regrets, just as she had learned to do.
Drinking heavily, Wen You stumbled through the streets, every sight, from a sugar figure stall to falling blossoms, triggering memories of Zhan Qinghong. He bought a sugar figure, but upon returning home, he accidentally dropped and shattered it, collapsing in despair. Princess Hua Yao, witnessing his pain, looked at him with concern.
She had sent people to the palace to inquire about him when he didn't return, only to find he hadn't gone there at all, making her wonder if he had urgent business outside the city. Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong's group arrived at Mianyang City, but their entry was blocked by Guerilla General Gao Jianhua. Gao Jianhua, suspecting them to be spies sent by the rebel Du Zeng, ordered his archers to fire, preventing their approach.
Zhan Qinghong, with Huo Yang, scaled the city wall. She presented the emperor's order to Gao Jianhua, proving their legitimacy. Gao Jianhua explained that his caution stemmed from actual spies who had impersonated envoys and infiltrated the city. These spies had already coerced Governor Xuan Kai, an inactive official, into surrendering the city defense map and military deployment authority, intending to collude with Du Zeng to capture Mianyang City from within.
Upon entering the governor's residence, Lin Fang immediately sensed the presence of the spies. Lin Fang and his companions decided to act quickly, putting on a show to rescue Governor Xuan Kai. During their conversation, Lin Fang, under the guise of an official reception, entered Xuan Kai's private quarters and intentionally shattered Xuan Kai's valuable Polei inkstone. This provoked a strong, instinctive reaction from Xuan Kai, causing him to rush out.
Before the stunned spies could react, Gao Jianhua swiftly killed one. The other spy, seeing this, immediately took poison and died. Lin Fang was unable to extract any further information from them. A search of the spies' bodies revealed both were from the West Yan Kingdom. After questioning Governor Xuan Kai, Lin Fang and his group learned that a large West Yan army was poised to reinforce Du Zeng.
This news presented a grave threat to Mianyang City, making military training an urgent priority. Zhan Qinghong, disguised as a man, accompanied Lin Fang into the barracks. They observed the troops were disorganized, with each company commander operating independently. Lin Fang proposed that Zhan Qinghong be appointed as the chief instructor.
Zhan Qinghong then used a provocative tactic, challenging a boastful commander named Luo Wu to a wrestling match, with the high-stakes bet that the loser would have to wash all the socks in the barracks. Gao Jianhua expressed skepticism about Zhan Qinghong's ability to command such unruly men, but Lin Fang assured him that his guardian was never afraid of a fight.
Episode 22 Recap
Huo Yang engaged in a bet to fight seven military captains, with the losing party responsible for washing all the soldiers' socks in the camp. While Luo Wu, one of the captains, openly disdained Huo Yang as an inexperienced youth, and General Gao Jianhua worried Huo Yang might get injured, Huo Yang swiftly defeated all seven captains in just a few moves. Though initially unwilling to concede, the captains, bruised from the fight, verbally submitted.
General Gao Jianhua then formally introduced Lin Fang as Mingwei General Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong as Guerilla General Zhan Qinghong, announcing that Zhan Qinghong would now serve as the new chief instructor of the Mianyang garrison, tasked with training the captains. Luo Wu immediately challenged Zhan Qinghong's authority, questioning why he should obey her. Zhan Qinghong met his defiance with a direct challenge to fight again.
Lin Fang then laid down two rules for the garrison: first, various regional garrisons must not target each other, and captains must live harmoniously, fostering camaraderie; second, training would commence at dawn the following day. Zhan Qinghong then reminded the defeated captains, specifically Luo Wu, to fulfill their part of the bet by washing all the camp's socks under Huo Yang's supervision. In the ensuing days, Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang worked together seamlessly to discipline the captains.
Zhan Qinghong, despite being a woman, employed strict and rigorous training methods that quickly brought Luo Wu and the others into line. Luo Wu, though grumbling about "bean sprout" generals, secretly practiced his light-body skills at night. Observing him, Zhan Qinghong offered guidance, helping him overcome his psychological barriers and emphasizing that victory required unity and trust among comrades. Deeply moved by her words and help, Luo Wu shed his resentment and began to genuinely respect her authority.
Xiao Lan, being the only woman in the barracks, received much unwanted attention. Soldiers frequently tried to curry favor with her by offering help with chores, but Huo Yang would chase them away with a stern expression. Once, after soldiers enthusiastically helped Xiao Lan dry clothes, she offered to wash their dirty, smelly garments, only to recoil from the overpowering odor.
Huo Yang then tasked Luo Wu, who was already responsible for the camp's socks, with washing the rest of the laundry, further emphasizing Huo Yang's protective nature toward Xiao Lan. Meanwhile, Zhan Qinghong continued to write letters to Wen You, unaware of his marriage. Xiao Lan, tasked with delivering these letters to Lin Fang, expressed concern that Wen You's lack of response might arouse Zhan Qinghong's suspicion. Lin Fang assured her that he would manage the situation.
Shortly after Xiao Lan departed, Feng Bufei infiltrated the barracks, seeking to steal the Seven-star swordsmanship manual. Lin Fang, recognizing Feng Bufei, was enraged and intended to settle old scores. Feng Bufei, however, quickly incapacitated Lin Fang with a swift strike and began searching his tent. Just then, General Gao Jianhua and his subordinates entered to report that Du Zeng's army was on the move.
They found Lin Fang unconscious, and as they tended to him, Feng Bufei slipped away undetected. Upon regaining consciousness, Lin Fang's first concern was the manual. After receiving a more detailed report that Du Zeng's army was rapidly approaching and ordering the troops to prepare for battle, he immediately began altering the manual's contents with his brush and ink to create a fake version.
Feng Bufei, having failed to locate the original manual, left with a frustrated vow to steal it another time. In Jun'an, Wen You languished in a state of despair, finding his only solace in secretly reading Zhan Qinghong's letters. He often sought escape by drinking alone by the Qinhuai Riverside. Xiahou Ying, having recently found peace through Wen Rou's counsel, urged Wen You to abandon his melancholy and pursue a meaningful career.
Xiahou Ying highlighted the severe internal and external threats facing the Xiao Empire, from the ailing emperor and corrupt officials to the aggressive West Yan Kingdom. He implored Wen You to set aside personal grievances and embrace his responsibility to the country, encouraging him to fight for justice. Wen You listened, reflective but still burdened by his circumstances. Back at the camp, Zhan Qinghong, still without a reply from Wen You, questioned Lin Fang about the delay.
Lin Fang reassured her that communication was difficult due to the war and promised to inform her once he received news. During a discussion about military strategy, Lin Fang noticed dirt on Zhan Qinghong's face and gently wiped it away. This gesture was unfortunately observed by some soldiers, who began gossiping that Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong shared a homosexual relationship. Luo Wu, hearing these comments, fiercely defended Zhan Qinghong's honor, resulting in a physical altercation with the gossiping soldiers.
The fight interrupted Lin Fang’s strategic meeting, prompting him to intervene. He found Luo Wu fighting fellow soldiers. Despite pleas from General Gao Jianhua and others to investigate the cause, Lin Fang strictly applied military law for disturbing discipline, ordering Luo Wu to receive one hundred strokes and be publicly displayed for two days. Soon after, Zhan Qinghong received a letter, seemingly from Wen You, containing only four words: "Everything is fine."
She gazed at it for a long time, touched by the brief message. Learning of Luo Wu's severe punishment for defending her honor, Zhan Qinghong rushed to his side. Despite Luo Wu's protests, she insisted on being tied up alongside him, publicly declaring that her own leniency in training was to blame and that she intended to teach them about true camaraderie.
She then clearly stated that she and Lin Fang were not in a romantic relationship, validating Luo Wu's defense of her. Her solidarity deeply moved Luo Wu and the other soldiers. Lin Fang, witnessing her impulsive act, felt a mixture of anger and deep concern for her well-being. Meanwhile, Princess Hua Yao approached her grandfather, Wang Dun, to secure an official position for Wen You.
Despite the customary restriction on emperors' sons-in-law participating in politics, Wang Dun, moved by Hua Yao's plea, agreed to request the emperor to appoint Wen You as a Jijiu Sanqi Changshi (Senior Attendant-in-ordinary), the highest ceremonial rank for such a position. Hua Yao excitedly informed Wen You of his new prestigious title. However, Wen You remained detached and indifferent, which deeply pained Hua Yao.
She confronted him about his coldness and frequent absences since their marriage, tearfully confessing her lifelong loneliness and how he had been her only companion. Touched by her vulnerability, Wen You softened and promised to stop avoiding her and spending so much time away from home.
Episode 23 Recap
Time passed quickly, and Zhan Qinghong, along with Luo Wu, finally completed their punishment. Soldiers helped them down, and despite Lin Fang's stern expression, Zhan Qinghong seized the opportunity to boost morale, leading everyone in a chest-thumping chant of unity. Xiao Lan chastised Zhan Qinghong for acting too much like a man, but Lin Fang approached, carrying a tray of green bean soup. He instructed Zhan Qinghong to drink six bowls until she could no longer stomach it.
Knowing she was at fault, Zhan Qinghong did not dare to argue, instead trying to appease him with playful remarks. Lin Fang, not holding a grudge, later discussed Luo Wu and Gu Qingshan's group with her. Lin Fang, after investigating their backgrounds, confirmed they were of untainted origin, with good character and fighting skills. Lin Fang, noting the volatile military situation in Mianyang, believed the most effective way to defeat the rebels was to directly eliminate Du Zeng.
He proposed training these seven men as trusted confidants, forming an assassination squad that, along with Zhan Qinghong and Huo Yang, could become a pivotal force in securing victory for Mianyang. Meanwhile, Huo Yang noticed soldiers constantly inquiring about Xiao Lan's marital status and trying to court her. He pulled her to the city wall, where he not only confessed his feelings but publicly kissed her. Xiao Lan, who had long considered Huo Yang a trustworthy man, was overjoyed.
Understanding his traumatic childhood and lack of security, she embraced him gently, promising to stay by his side forever. The seven company commanders, including Luo Wu and Gu Qingshan, formally became Zhan Qinghong's disciples. Luo Wu, being the last to arrive, ended up as the youngest disciple, drawing good-natured teasing from his new senior brothers. As the intensive training progressed, the Mianyang garrison visibly improved, much to Lin Fang's satisfaction.
Upon receiving intelligence that the garrison had completed its reorganization, Du Zeng remained dismissive, believing them to be a disorganized rabble. At the House Consort, Xiahou Ying, at Princess Hua Yao's request, met with Wen You. Learning of recent mysterious deaths and sudden resignations among court officials, Xiahou Ying found the situation suspicious and agreed to investigate discreetly.
Wen You tried to inquire about Zhan Qinghong's situation, but Xiahou Ying advised him to let go of the past and regain his composure, reminding him that there was no turning back from his current path. After leaving the House Consort, Xiahou Ying, unable to shake his concerns, immediately sought out Wen Rou. However, once in front of her, he struggled to express himself and feigned illness, complaining of a knot in his chest.
Wen Rou saw through his pretense but did not expose him. After prescribing a relaxing herbal tea and seeing him off, she smiled sweetly to herself. Du Zeng's army advanced to the city outskirts. Xuan Kai refused to personally oversee the battle, making a bloody confrontation inevitable. Zhan Qinghong gave Lin Fang her family's Golden Silk Armor for protection, then led the soldiers to defend the city gates. During the fight, she recognized the enemy as soldiers from Yan.
Thanks to the Golden Silk Armor, Lin Fang was protected from a lethal arrow. Du Zeng, shocked that his powerful arrow had failed, immediately ordered a retreat. The news of the successful defense spread, and all the generals cheered. However, during the celebration, Zhan Qinghong's clothes were torn, revealing her inner garments. Despite Lin Fang's quick attempt to cover her, everyone realized that Zhan Qinghong was, in fact, a woman.
Afterward, Lin Fang met Zhan Qinghong, returning her Golden Silk Armor and tenderly scolding her for disregarding her own safety. He then produced a family heirloom sword manual, containing the mental cultivation methods "Fire Phoenix" and "Galloping Dragon." He instructed Zhan Qinghong to memorize it instantly before he destroyed the manual, ensuring that only she and he knew its secrets.
Later, Xiao Lan teased Zhan Qinghong, saying Lin Fang was like a "dad" when angry, a remark Zhan Qinghong found amusing but cautioned Xiao Lan to keep secret. During the celebratory banquet, amidst general merriment, General Gao, deeply impressed by Zhan Qinghong's martial prowess and beauty, and even feeling some affection, asked if she was married.
Zhan Qinghong openly spoke of her beloved, Wen You, only to be devastated when she learned from General Gao that Wen You had already married Princess Hua Yao and was now the consort. Unable to bear the news, she decided to return to the capital to confront him.
Episode 24 Recap
At a banquet, Zhan Qinghong was heartbroken upon learning that Wen You had married Princess Hua Yao and become the consort. Despite Lin Fang's plea to "be calm," she grabbed her sword and left the feast abruptly. Worried, Lin Fang ordered his carriage prepared and followed her. They rode non-stop back to the city, arriving at the House Consort late at night, only to witness Princess Hua Yao and Wen You embracing.
Princess Hua Yao was heard congratulating Wen You on his potential promotion to supreme justice, while Wen You seemed preoccupied. He soon noticed Zhan Qinghong's presence and followed her, repeatedly calling her name and attempting to embrace her. However, a deeply hurt Zhan Qinghong pushed him away, confronting him with her anguish.
She demanded to know where he was when her parents and brothers were murdered and she was at her lowest, when her letters to him went unanswered, and when she searched for him in Jun'an and drank herself into oblivion. She reminded him of his promise to be with her forever, questioning his current absence. Wen You could only offer a sorrowful "I am sorry."
In a final act of despair, Zhan Qinghong took their bracelet of affection and shattered it with her sword, signifying the end of their relationship. Days turned into weeks, and Lin Fang spent every spare moment on the city wall, gazing into the distance after completing his military duties. His subordinates reported no success in finding Zhan Qinghong, though horse footprints suggested she headed towards Jun'an.
Lin Fang, consumed by worry, considered riding out alone, but was reassured that "she will come back." His subordinates urged him to go inside, noting the cold and the camp gossip about him standing vigil all night. Lin Fang confessed that he had hidden the truth from Zhan Qinghong about Wen You's marriage because he feared she couldn't bear it and he needed time to process the news himself.
He regretted that once the opportunity to tell her passed, he felt compelled to keep hiding it. When asked what would happen if she never returned, Lin Fang steadfastly affirmed, "She will be back." Finally, on a day of heavy snowfall, Lin Fang spotted a dark speck in the white landscape that resolved into Zhan Qinghong, collapsed on her horse, which was carrying her back. He rushed forward, embraced her, and brought her back to the camp.
A medic informed Lin Fang that Zhan Qinghong was suffering from extreme fatigue and a slight fever, requiring only rest. Lin Fang insisted on caring for her himself, refusing assistance. As she lay unconscious, he tenderly vowed, "I hope this is the last time you're hurt. Your world, I will protect it. I will be here with you forever, I will care for you, and I will cherish you.
You won't be lonely again, you won't be depressed again, your future, I'm in it." Zhan Qinghong remained ill for an extended period, with Lin Fang diligently nursing her side. During her unconscious state, her students expressed deep concern and anger towards Wen You for his betrayal, threatening vengeance despite his status as consort. They debated various methods to cheer her up, eventually settling on a plan that involved dressing up and performing.
When Zhan Qinghong finally awoke after three or four days, Lin Fang was by her side. She immediately asked if he had seen Wen You, discerning that he had known about the marriage for some time. Lin Fang confirmed her suspicions, explaining that by the time he learned, the imperial edict for the marriage was already issued.
He admitted he had intended to arrange a meeting for them to clarify matters and regretted that she discovered the truth in such a painful manner, acknowledging his own oversight. Zhan Qinghong, though understanding that it wasn't his fault and that he worried about her, confessed, "But I am still so sad." Her subordinate later reported her as melancholic, reluctant to leave her room, and low on energy, pretending happiness in public but crying in private.
To lift her spirits, the soldiers, led by a few captains, decided to put on a surprise performance. They donned female attire and danced with great effort. Witnessing their sincere attempts to cheer her up, Zhan Qinghong was overwhelmed with emotion and burst into tears. Deeply touched, she expressed her gratitude, declaring, "I will get myself together," and resolved to resume her sword practice.
While recovering, she had vivid dreams of her past, recalling Wen You's vows of eternal love and the joyous times with her family and fellow disciples at the Zhan Family home, a poignant reminder of what she had lost. The next morning, Zhan Qinghong sought out Lin Fang. He greeted her, remarking that he was just about to look for her.
She directly asked about the "Everything is fine" letter she had received earlier, correctly deducing that he had written it. Lin Fang confirmed, explaining, "I didn't want you to be sad." Zhan Qinghong thanked him, to which he playfully responded, "Only a thank you?" He then sternly instructed her, urging her to remember his words: "You can't just leave your job. Your life is very important. A lot of people care about you."
Zhan Qinghong acknowledged his concerns with a smile. Unexpectedly, Lin Fang pulled her into a warm embrace and whispered, "I will marry you," into her ear. The time came for another confrontation with Du Zeng's rebel forces. Lin Fang and his officers discussed their grim situation; an informant reported that Du Zeng's army had converged with the Yan army in Xifeng town, amassing over 80,000 troops, vastly outnumbering Lin Fang's force of less than 20,000.
Despite the drastic difference in numbers and the lack of further reinforcements, Lin Fang remained resolute, stating that winning with fewer troops was not unheard of and their situation was "not hopeless." He proposed an offensive strategy: to "attack as a mean of defense" by going out of the city gates, aiming to "get the head first" by capturing Du Zeng, which he believed would cause the rebel army to "collapse naturally."
General Gao, while agreeing with the strategy, expressed concern for Zhan Qinghong's well-being. Lin Fang, sighing, replied that "some wounds can only heal slowly by themselves," and directed General Gao to dispatch the troops. Before the battle, Lin Fang urged Zhan Qinghong to "Believe me. Be careful." Du Zeng, full of confidence, declared his intention to "take Mian Yang!" As the battle began, Du Zeng's forces attacked both the east and west gates.
Zhan Qinghong, alongside Huo Yang and Gu Qingshan, led a special unit deep into enemy lines, aiming to deliver a fatal blow to Du Zeng. Lin Fang, overseeing the operation, reiterated that "everything is going according to plan" and emphasized the importance of retreating after assassinating Du Zeng, cautioning them "not to dwell." Du Zeng, observing Zhan Qinghong's daring advance, dismissed her as a "damn girl" coming to "die."
Overconfident, he disregarded his subordinates' warnings and rushed to the front lines to personally engage Zhan Qinghong, stating he would be "quick" and "give them a taste of me." He left a subordinate in charge of the central army. Zhan Qinghong instructed Huo Yang to send her to Du Zeng, while telling Gu Qingshan to stay and cover.
She faced Du Zeng in single combat, but the general mocked her, calling her a "kiddo" and claiming her "swordsmanship is not my competition."
As she struggled against Du Zeng's superior strength, Zhan Qinghong suddenly recalled the Seven-star swordsmanship techniques Lin Fang had made her memorize, including the full oral incantation: "Sword hits the sky, wildly ride the wolf, endless breaths in the universe, the heart knows the length, seven-star is hidden in the sun, with assistance of peace, you will be in the zone, fetch the lake with the icy moon."
Employing various moves like "Firing phoenix," "Jumping dragon," and "Bouncing tiger," she fought with renewed vigor. Hidden among Du Zeng's troops, Feng Bufei recognized her use of the Seven-star swordsmanship and immediately ordered his men to "Kill her." However, empowered by the rediscovered techniques, Zhan Qinghong successfully struck down Du Zeng. With their leader dead, the rebel army fell into disarray. As Zhan Qinghong's team prepared to retreat to the city wall, Luo Wu insisted she go first.
She refused, but as she was climbing, an enemy arrow struck her. She cried out and fell from the city wall, prompting an officer to order their archers to "Shoot all these people down."
Episode 25 Recap
As the urgent situation unfolded, Lin Fang, without hesitation, tied a rope around his waist and leaped from the city wall, embracing Zhan Qinghong and safely bringing her away from danger. Once they were both back on the city tower, Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang expressed concern for each other, relieved that neither had sustained serious injuries.
Their daring act significantly boosted the morale of the Mianyang defenders, who seized the opportunity to open the city gates and decisively defeat Du Zeng's rebel forces. News of the great victory reached Jun'an. Wen You, who had been anxiously polishing his Juejue swords, carefully put them away upon hearing the report from his attendant that Du Zeng was defeated and there were no major casualties among the generals.
Meanwhile, Princess Hua Yao's attendant informed her that Zhan Qinghong had made significant contributions in the fight against the enemy and that Lin Fang, the Director of the Wulin Alliance, would soon return to Jun'an for commendation. Hua Yao, displeased by this news, muttered that Zhan Qinghong was a "lingering ghost." In Mianyang, Zhan Qinghong and the soldiers held a ceremony to honor the fallen.
Luo Wu stood before Gu Qingshan's tomb, expressing regret that they had not gotten along before but that he had always considered Gu Qingshan his brother. He then pledged that in their next life, they would still be brothers. As the emperor had urgently recalled them to the capital, everyone had to depart immediately. At the city gates, Xuan Kai, along with the Mianyang defenders, bid farewell to Zhan Qinghong and her group.
When General Gao embraced Zhan Qinghong, he remarked that it was a hug from a friend who had experienced death with her. Lin Fang, clearly put out by the display, quickly stepped forward and separated them. Lin Fang's men joked that their director was "so stingy" and that General Gao had made him lose face.
Lin Fang, addressing the Mianyang soldiers, thanked them, stating he would always remember the battle and that it was his great honor to fight alongside them for the country. Xuan Kai praised Zhan Qinghong's bravery, noting her success in killing three assassins and later, single-handedly turning the tide by killing Du Zeng when their forces were in decline. When a soldier asked Zhan Qinghong why they were leaving so quickly, she explained that the court had ordered their return.
She encouraged the soldier to practice his Kungfu diligently and seek her out once his military service was complete. On the journey back to Jun'an, Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang shared a carriage. Zhan Qinghong advised Lin Fang, who was injured, not to ride a horse and to take good care of himself, refraining from using his martial arts for a while. She then tried to get him to drink water.
Lin Fang playfully refused to wear his golden silk armor, suggesting she wear it as she often put herself in danger. He then confessed that he wanted to protect her, just as she had always protected him. Their banter was interrupted when Huo Yang detected an ambush and urgently warned them. Moments later, dozens of assassins charged from the opposite direction. Zhan Qinghong and Huo Yang immediately engaged the attackers, but it was a clever diversion by Feng Bufei.
Xiao Lan, overwhelmed by the speed of the kidnapper, could only describe him as "too fast" and that his jumping figure looked "like a big monkey." Zhan Qinghong realized it was Feng Bufei, whose true target was Lin Fang, and felt her own wound reopen in the struggle. She instructed her companions to split up and search for Lin Fang.
Feng Bufei brought Lin Fang to a secret room, tying him to a wooden post and demanding the whereabouts of the Seven-star swordsmanship. Lin Fang defiantly stated that the Seven-star swordsmanship had "already been destroyed." Enraged, Feng Bufei ordered his men to brand Lin Fang with a fiery iron, searing the 'Feng' character onto his skin, and even pierce his palm with an awl. Despite the excruciating pain, Lin Fang refused to yield.
Feng Bufei, growing increasingly frustrated, declared his intention to turn Lin Fang into a "doll" by dislocating his limbs and threading ropes through his hands and feet, fantasizing about making him and Zhan Qinghong play together. Just as Feng Bufei was about to proceed, Shen Yanzhi, Huo Yang, and Zhan Qinghong arrived, having tracked Lin Fang using a special insect called "Qianli Xiu" (smell from a thousand miles), which could trace the scent of the medicine in Lin Fang's sachet.
Feng Bufei, realizing his enemies had arrived, quickly fled, complaining that he only wanted to play with Lin Fang and not be friends with them. Zhan Qinghong successfully rescued Lin Fang, but he was severely weakened and on the brink of death. Fortunately, after being examined by Wen Rou, it was determined that his injuries were mostly superficial, with no damage to his heart or bones, and his hand wound was not serious.
However, Wen Rou noted that scalds were intensely painful and that normal anesthetics would be ineffective for Lin Fang due to his long-term consumption of Five-Stone Powder. She concluded that Lin Fang's resilient nature, despite his delicate appearance, would help him endure the pain. Zhan Qinghong, feeling responsible for his predicament, decided to personally stay by his bedside.
Xiaolan initially expressed her skepticism about Zhan Qinghong's caregiving abilities to Yanzhi, who replied that she believed Lin Fang would "enjoy it" regardless. Later, after witnessing their interaction, Xiaolan privately mused that his injury was "worth it," as it brought them closer, and even hoped they would "get married directly." For several days, Zhan Qinghong diligently cared for Lin Fang.
While applying medicine to his burns, she comforted him and made a vow, promising her unwavering loyalty and declaring that anyone who dared to harm him again would have to step over her dead body. Lin Fang, though in pain, found warmth in her devoted care. She even ingeniously used a reed stem to help him drink water without spilling.
As Lin Fang slowly regained consciousness, he noticed Zhan Qinghong's meticulous care, which made him feel warm inside, almost oblivious to his pain. Later, Zhan Qinghong started preparing porridge for him, to Xiaolan's amusement, who continued her romantic musings, referencing "Wulin Rumors" and suggesting they share "one spoonful for you, one for me." Zhan Qinghong dismissed her for reading "rubbish scripts." One night, Lin Fang, worried that Zhan Qinghong was overexerting herself, pretended to be hungry.
He woke her up and asked for chicken soup, complaining that he was tired of plain porridge. Despite her exhaustion and initial hesitation, Zhan Qinghong, after securing his promise not to complain if it tasted bad, reluctantly went to the kitchen in the middle of the night to prepare the soup. After a long effort, she returned with it, only to find Lin Fang asleep. She woke him up, insisting he drink it.
Lin Fang playfully demanded she share it with him, hinting at the romantic novel tropes Xiaolan had mentioned. She refused, but he persuaded her to at least try a sip. To her surprise, Zhan Qinghong found the chicken soup delicious and ended up drinking the entire bowl herself, exclaiming about her own excellent cooking skills. Lin Fang, amused, let her finish it. Xiaolan, observing the growing intimacy between them, continued to encourage their relationship.
Zhan Qinghong was aware of Lin Fang's feelings, but while caring deeply for him, she did not yet feel romantic love for him. The next morning, Wen You arrived at the Lin residence, having heard from Wen Rou about Lin Fang's kidnapping and injuries. Shen Yanzhi went to inform Lin Fang of the visit. Lin Fang, upon hearing the news, told Zhan Qinghong that he did not wish to see Wen You. Zhan Qinghong, in turn, began to tidy his clothes and hair. This intimate scene was precisely what Wen You witnessed as he approached, filling him with a pang of jealousy.
Episode 26 Recap
Wen You spoke with Lin Fang, expressing his concern about recent court turmoil and the possibility of Prime Minister Wang targeting the Wulin. He mentioned the assassination of several court officials in Jun'an, seemingly by Wulin members, and urged Lin Fang to be cautious, as his own official status limited his intervention. Wen You then asked about Zhan Qinghong, prompting Lin Fang to openly confess his affection for her and his intention to stay by her side forever.
Acknowledging their past rivalry for Zhan Qinghong and earlier disagreements, Wen You still assured Lin Fang that he considered him a good brother. Later, Princess Hua Yao confronted Wen You upon his return to the Consort's residence, suspecting he had been to the Lin House to meet Zhan Qinghong. Wen You defended his visit as merely checking on Lin Fang, who was injured. Annoyed by her constant questioning, he suggested she ask the Imperial Guards who followed him for details.
Hua Yao complained about his treatment, and her maid advised her against getting angry, reminding the Princess of her noble status and suggesting she approach Prime Minister Wang if she was worried about Zhan Qinghong's influence over Wen You. That same night, a restless Zhan Qinghong sought out Lin Fang to understand why he was teaching her the Seven-star swordsmanship.
Lin Fang initially responded with a playful suggestion that she could become the director's wife, which he joked would internally keep the martial art within the clan. He then revealed that the Ghost Three had killed both his father and her parents and martial brothers for the swordsmanship. He explained that the Seven-star swordsmanship was both a lure to draw out their elusive enemy, the King of Million Demons Wang Bucheng, and a powerful weapon.
Since he was unable to practice martial arts, he had chosen her to wield this crucial weapon. Zhan Qinghong understood and vowed to practice diligently to personally avenge their loved ones. However, immediately after her earnest promise, Lin Fang reiterated his proposal for her to become the wife of the director. Startled and exasperated, Zhan Qinghong abruptly left. Back in her room, Xiao Lan, ever curious, pressed Zhan Qinghong for details about her time with Lin Fang.
Zhan Qinghong admitted to feeling a strong, almost intuitive, connection with Lin Fang, which Xiao Lan interpreted as a deep "tacit understanding." Despite acknowledging Lin Fang's affection, Zhan Qinghong expressed her current inability to guarantee anything beyond repaying his kindness, leading Xiao Lan to lament Lin Fang's difficult romantic journey. Meanwhile, Princess Hua Yao, feeling threatened by Zhan Qinghong’s return, confided in Prime Minister Wang, her grandfather, about Wen You's continued interest in Zhan Qinghong.
Prime Minister Wang advised Hua Yao to adopt a strategy of "retreat for advancement," suggesting she appear magnanimous by seemingly accommodating Wen You's desires. He reminded her that she held ultimate authority within the Consort's residence. Lin Fang's subordinates reported on the various Wulin affairs, including the assassination of officials, the consolidation of the Zhou family's assets in Linzhou, and the successful management of Cangwu by Manager Qiu. Lin Fang instructed them to summon Qiu An to Jun'an.
Soon after, an invitation arrived from the Consort's residence for a banquet, where an imperial edict would be announced. Lin Fang offered Zhan Qinghong the choice to decline, but she, demonstrating a newfound maturity, insisted on attending for both official and personal reasons, believing it was her duty as his protector to be composed.
Upon entering the brightly lit Consort's residence, Zhan Qinghong remarked on its stark contrast to her previous, dark visit, expressing a hope that there wouldn't be a third. Huo Yang, always protective, assured her he would be ready to assist if any conflict arose. At the banquet, Princess Hua Yao began by commending the generals for their military contributions.
She then singled out Zhan Qinghong, reminiscing about their first encounter, implying a trivial past, and attempting to publicly link her to Wen You as a "martial sister" with deep affection. Zhan Qinghong deftly rebuffed these attempts, stating she didn't deserve such a title. Hua Yao then ordered Zhan Qinghong to kneel for the imperial edict. Huo Yang reacted with anger but was held back.
The edict, read by Hua Yao, bestowed titles like "Mighty Director" upon Lin Fang and awards to both, but simultaneously revoked their military general titles, a clear act of thinly veiled demotion. Huo Yang was outraged by this "kicking down the ladder," but Zhan Qinghong remained composed, explaining to him that, as Lin Fang once said, their service was for the people of Mianyang and the Xiao Empire, making such personal slights insignificant.
Hua Yao, noticing Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong’s closeness, then proposed that she and Wen You toast them. Wen You attempted to politely decline. Undeterred, Hua Yao continued her provocations, praising Wen You's gentle nature and his kindness towards her, implicitly contrasting it with his behavior towards Zhan Qinghong. She then directly asked Zhan Qinghong if she had a lover or was engaged.
When Zhan Qinghong replied no, Hua Yao dramatically announced her intention to "give her a marriage" by taking her into the Consort's residence as Wen You's concubine. Huo Yang's fury erupted, and Wen You tried to intervene, calling the proposal inappropriate. Hua Yao insisted, emphasizing Zhan Qinghong's humble background and deeming it a great "fortune" for her. Lin Fang then stepped in, praising Zhan Qinghong's character and citing the Emperor's admiration for her as the "first female general."
Huo Yang outright accused Hua Yao and Wen You of collaborating to humiliate his master. To resolve the volatile situation, Lin Fang boldly declared that he and Zhan Qinghong were already engaged, explaining their secrecy. He elaborated that Zhan Qinghong, being a woman who valued freedom and life in the martial world, was unwilling to be bound by marriage and depend on a man.
He revealed that only his near-death experience saving her in Mianyang had earned her consent to marry him, and they had planned to announce their union once all current conflicts were settled. A surprised Huo Yang unintentionally confirmed their past arguments in the carriage were indeed about this very matter. Wen You looked distraught, while Hua Yao, though clearly displeased and threatening to punish any deception, allowed the banquet to conclude.
On the carriage ride back, Zhan Qinghong reflected on her unexpected tranquility regarding Wen You, playfully asking Lin Fang if her memory was poor for forgetting Wen You so quickly. Lin Fang, moving closer, gently reminded her of their "engagement" and "marry me" vows, explaining his fabrication at the banquet was to protect her from being forced into concubinage. Zhan Qinghong acknowledged his help but expressed concern over Hua Yao’s threat of punishment.
Lin Fang dismissed the threat, then sincerely asked if, with her heart now "empty," she could finally "fall in love with him." When Zhan Qinghong tried to deflect by mentioning his many admirers in Jun'an, Lin Fang countered with a heartfelt declaration: "I am interested in nothing but a single scoop of river water, even though I stand before the vast river," emphasizing his singular devotion. He even suggested they could move to a less crowded place after marriage.
Zhan Qinghong, flustered, accused him of being drunk and restless, telling him to stop looking, then teasingly asked why he had stopped. Upon their return, Lin Fang attempted to get Zhan Qinghong to eat with him, but she declined, suggesting he join Xiao Lan and Huo Yang instead, causing Lin Fang to lose his appetite. Xiao Lan, noticing the awkwardness, pressed Huo Yang for details.
He recounted the entire banquet, including the edict, Hua Yao’s proposal to make Zhan Qinghong Wen You's concubine, and Lin Fang's dramatic announcement of their engagement and declaration of singular love. Overjoyed by this news, Xiao Lan rushed to Zhan Qinghong, excitedly asking why she hadn't revealed such a significant event to her.
Zhan Qinghong tried to downplay Lin Fang’s words as mere assistance, but Xiao Lan, with genuine warmth, confided in her, expressing how Zhan Qinghong was the closest person to her since her parents' passing. Xiao Lan then earnestly urged Zhan Qinghong to accept Lin Fang, articulating her deep desire for Zhan Qinghong to find a partner who truly understood, protected, and would be with her forever.
Meanwhile, after Feng Bufei's failed attempt to capture the Seven-star swordsmanship, the Ghost Three — Feng Bufei, another demon, and their leader, the King of Million Demons Wang Bucheng — regrouped to devise a new plan. Wang Bucheng, admonishing Feng Bufei for his rashness, dismissed the idea of direct confrontation. Instead, he revealed his strategy of "killing someone with a borrowed knife" and "attacking the enemy by passing through a common neighbor" to subtly acquire the sword.
He then arranged a secret meeting between Zhong Buming and Ji Xiaoran. At this meeting, Zhong Buming presented Ji Xiaoran with an opportunity to avenge "Master Gu" and seize control of the Wulin from Lin Fang, whom Zhong Buming denounced as "cunning and treacherous." Separately, Xiahou Ying visited Wen Rou, bringing a peculiar "prescription" containing herbs with names that subtly hinted at a desire to "share the four seasons" and "be forever with me."
Wen Rou, discerning his romantic intentions, pretended not to understand, attributing the strange combination to a friend. Xiahou Ying then requested her presence at the Lin House to check on Lin Fang, bringing the prepared medicine with her. At the Lin House, Lin Fang skillfully diverted Zhan Qinghong to prevent her from learning about his poisoning. Wen Rou, however, informed Lin Fang that his heart pulse was significantly weaker, likening his life force to a "gossamer thread."
While she provided a medicine that could "suppress toxins," she clarified that "there is no cure" and warned of fatal consequences if the treatment was interrupted. Lin Fang grimly acknowledged his inevitable death, but resolute, stated that "it can't be now."
Episode 27 Recap
Zhan Qinghong still felt a blush from the previous day's events. As she shared playful banter with Lin Fang, Qiu An arrived at the Lin House, having been summoned by Lin Fang. Zhan Qinghong teasingly suggested she could marry Qiu An, only to learn that he was already engaged to a daughter from a prominent Wulin family in Cangwu, a fact he had intended to report to Lin Fang.
This news brought a wave of relief to Zhan Qinghong, as she reflected on how the once-childish Qiu An, who had sworn to marry only her, had matured into an independent man. Later, Lin Fang and Qiu An discussed the state of Wulin. Both suspected that the imperial court intended to incorporate Wulin into its ranks, with Lin Fang citing his own appointment as the "Mighty Alliance Leader" as evidence.
Qiu An vehemently opposed such a move, emphasizing the long-standing separation between the court and Wulin affairs. He also noted Ji Xiaoran's recent activities, contacting various clan leaders, and warned Lin Fang to be cautious. Lin Fang, in turn, revealed his personal desire to retire to the mountains with Zhan Qinghong once their vengeance was complete, entrusting the leadership of Wulin to Qiu An, for whom he held great expectations.
As Qiu An prepared to leave Jun'an, he encountered Zhan Qinghong at the door. He bid her farewell, with a newfound seriousness, reminding her not to hesitate when she found the right person, just as he had courageously faced his own feelings. He expressed his unwavering commitment to always regard her as his elder sister, a sentiment that left Zhan Qinghong somewhat bewildered by his sudden formality.
However, Qiu An's subtle words, coupled with Xiao Lan's observations, prompted Zhan Qinghong to reflect on her own emotions. Xiao Lan pointed out how Zhan Qinghong instinctively sensed Lin Fang's gaze, how she worried terribly when he was kidnapped, and even how they had inadvertently shared a spoon. Holding the small knife Lin Fang had given her, Zhan Qinghong recalled cherished moments and realized that her feelings for him were deeper than mere friendship; she had indeed fallen in love.
Meanwhile, Hua Yao, having confirmed through her maid's investigation that Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong had no official marriage document, and correctly deducing that Lin Fang's earlier claims were merely to protect Zhan Qinghong, decided to take matters into her own hands. She dispatched guards to the Lin House with the intention of forcing Zhan Qinghong to become Wen You's concubine, even sending betrothal gifts for a concubine.
Despite Xiao Lan's protests, who argued that an exchanged token served as a legitimate engagement in Wulin, Hua Yao's maid dismissed it as invalid without formal paperwork and threatened Zhan Qinghong with severe repercussions for deceiving the royal family. Rather than allow a confrontation to escalate, Zhan Qinghong calmly agreed to go, expressing her desire to see how Princess Hua Yao and Wen You would treat a "commoner" like herself.
Upon arriving at the Consort's Mansion, she was confined to Wen You's room, with her captors explicitly threatening the lives of everyone in the Lin family if she resisted. News of Zhan Qinghong's abduction quickly reached Lin Fang. Enraged, he stormed into the Consort's Mansion, brushing past the guards as the emperor's "Mighty Alliance Leader." He confronted Wen You, accusing him of knowingly allowing Hua Yao to target Zhan Qinghong despite their own engagement.
Wen You denied prior knowledge, explaining that he had been away on official duties, discussing the Prime Minister's plan to incorporate Wulin with Lin Fang, and that Hua Yao's jealousy was a personal issue. He promised to resolve the situation with Hua Yao. Lin Fang gave Wen You until sunset to secure Zhan Qinghong's release and left Huo Yang to await her return. To definitively prove his detachment from Zhan Qinghong, Wen You took Hua Yao to his study.
There, he dramatically crushed the jade pendant Zhan Qinghong had given him as a love token. He then shattered the imperial "Jue Jue" double swords, explaining that "Jue" (珏) was a small jade ornament for women and "Jue" (玦) a larger ring for men, symbolizing their former bond, now irrevocably broken. Wen You explained that his relationship with Zhan Qinghong had ended long ago, citing an earlier occasion when they had returned their respective tokens to each other.
Convinced of Wen You's sincerity and softened by his gentle demeanor as he allowed her to bandage his bleeding hand, Hua Yao finally believed him and expressed regret for inadvertently jeopardizing his political affairs with her impulsive actions. She promised to immediately release Zhan Qinghong and prepare a generous wedding gift for the couple.
Having been persuaded, Hua Yao ordered Zhan Qinghong's release, acknowledging that Wen You had pleaded on their behalf and that Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang's feelings for each other were genuine. Back at Lin House, Zhan Qinghong was stunned to find it lavishly decorated for a wedding. Xiao Lan explained that this elaborate "wedding banquet" was Lin Fang's plan to officially save her from the princess's scrutiny, hinting playfully at Lin Fang's deeper intentions.
Zhan Qinghong initially hesitated, stating she needed to speak with Lin Fang, but Xiao Lan urged her to embrace the moment, praising Lin Fang's virtues and questioning if Zhan Qinghong truly had no desire to marry him. Meanwhile, before the wedding, Xiahou Ying personally visited Wen Rou at her pharmacy to invite her to the wedding, informing her that Lin Fang was marrying Zhan Qinghong.
Wen Rou, desiring Xiahou Ying to confess his feelings, was disheartened when he merely referred to her as an "old acquaintance." Feeling a little dejected, she initially refused his invitation, citing the need to continue boiling medicine, and watched him leave somewhat crestfallen. On the wedding day, a still-hesitant Zhan Qinghong had not yet changed into her bridal attire.
Xiao Lan, with unwavering patience, gently guided her, reasoning that the marriage, even if initially considered a "fake" one, was crucial to appease the princess and protect Lin Fang from repercussions. She further pressed Zhan Qinghong to confront her true feelings, leading Zhan Qinghong to declare her resolve to speak with Lin Fang. As Zhan Qinghong rushed out, Lin Fang entered, and they met face-to-face.
After Xiao Lan discreetly excused herself, Lin Fang embraced Zhan Qinghong from behind, passionately confessing his profound love for her, assuring her that he desired to marry her not merely out of duty or to save her, but because his heart truly yearned for her. Zhan Qinghong, in turn, admitted her own fear and loneliness while imprisoned, realizing that in her darkest moments, it was Lin Fang she longed for most.
She acknowledged that she had long understood his deep affection but had been unprepared to reciprocate. Now, she vowed to stop resisting and to cherish his sincerity, choosing to spend her life by his side. The wedding ceremony commenced, with guests arriving to celebrate. Xiahou Ying, having arrived without a gift, was playfully teased by other guests. Just then, Wen Rou made a surprise appearance, presenting a gift on behalf of both herself and Xiahou Ying.
Xiao Lan, immediately grasping the unspoken implication, offered enthusiastic congratulations. As the auspicious moment arrived and the new couple prepared to make their entrance, the Princess, accompanied by Wen You, unexpectedly arrived, adding another layer of tension to the celebration.
Episode 28 Recap
The auspicious time for the wedding arrived, and Princess Hua Yao, accompanied by Official Wen You, visited the Lin House. She offered her blessings to the newlyweds, presenting a Qilin Fertility gift from herself and the Fuma, and wishing Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong a joyous marriage with conjugal harmony. Lin Fang thanked the princess for her kind words. Wen You also extended his good wishes, hoping they would have children soon.
With the guests seated, General Xiahou officiated the ceremony. Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong bowed to the heavens, their parents, and then to each other, officially becoming husband and wife. After a maid confirmed that Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong had entered the bridal chamber and exchanged hair as part of their marital vows, Princess Hua Yao and Official Wen You departed. General Xiahou offered to escort Wen Rou home.
As they walked, Wen Rou brought up the matter of a gift she had acquired for him. When Xiahou Ying seemed unsure how to express his gratitude, Wen Rou declared that until she decided how he should repay her, he would be at her beck and call. She then took his hand, and they walked on together. Outside the bridal chamber, Xiao Lan, curious about the sounds, lingered by the door, trying to eavesdrop.
After Huo Yang left to attend to some matters, she snuck into the room. Inside, Zhan Qinghong was nervous on her wedding night, and Lin Fang’s teasing only heightened her embarrassment. When he reached out to touch her, she instinctively subdued him on the bed with a swift move. Xiao Lan, satisfied with the exciting scene, quietly left. Lin Fang seized the opportunity to feign unconsciousness, then pulled Zhan Qinghong into an embrace as she panicked.
Just as Zhan Qinghong closed her eyes, ready for what might follow, Lin Fang’s poison flared up, and he genuinely fainted. To prevent Zhan Qinghong from worrying, Lin Fang claimed he was merely hungry. That night, they slept in separate beds. Meanwhile, Huo Yang secretly met with Ji Xiaoran. Ji Xiaoran revealed that Lin Fang had used Qiu An to deceive Huo Yang, and the story of Li Muzhong murdering his parents was a fabrication.
Huo Yang initially refused to believe him, but was shocked when Ji Xiaoran presented a ledger. The ledger specifically noted that the Huo family, consisting of fifty-six members, was massacred by the Green Dragon Gang, with the youngest son’s whereabouts unknown. Ji Xiaoran also made it clear that Lin Fang and Qiu An had a falling out over the court's plan to absorb Wulin, suggesting Huo Yang deserved to know the truth and not be fooled by Lin Fang.
Huo Yang remained conflicted, but Ji Xiaoran advised him to ponder the information and seek him out if he wished to learn more. The next morning, Zhan Qinghong playfully scolded Lin Fang for sleeping so quietly. He then playfully demanded she call him "husband," which she shyly did. As Zhan Qinghong applied her makeup, Lin Fang leaned in and kissed her.
Soon after, Xiao Lan burst in, teasing Lin Fang for wearing lipstick and then Zhan Qinghong for being so "proactive" after marriage. She left, saying she was going to find Huo Yang. Zhan Qinghong questioned Lin Fang about Xiao Lan’s comments, and he simply chuckled, expressing how lucky he was to have such an interesting wife. Huo Yang, still grappling with the revelations from the ledger, was found by Xiao Lan.
She excitedly recounted details from the wedding, mentioning how happy Zhan Qinghong’s parents and grandmaster would be in heaven. Huo Yang, seeing her joy, impulsively proposed. Xiao Lan, however, was hesitant, noting the absence of their deceased parents’ blessings or a matchmaker, and that they hadn't exchanged tokens. Huo Yang then offered his saber as a commitment token, declaring it as important as his own life.
Xiao Lan declined the saber but expressed her wish for a husband who was an upstanding man, one who would publicly vow eternal love to her. Following this, Huo Yang sought out Lin Fang, stating his desire to marry Xiao Lan and explaining that with Lin Fang’s recent marriage, Xiao Lan needed a proper belonging.
Lin Fang readily agreed, promising to entrust Wulin Rumors and the Lin House to Huo Yang’s management, praising his competence, martial arts skills, and loyalty to Zhan Qinghong. Huo Yang, however, expressed his inability to fully comprehend Lin Fang’s actions. Lin Fang reiterated that sometimes trust requires no reason, leaving the decision to Huo Yang. Huo Yang then presented the ledger, only to find that Lin Fang already knew about his secret meeting with Ji Xiaoran through Wulin Rumors.
Later, Xiao Lan asked Zhan Qinghong about her feelings. Zhan Qinghong reminisced about their first meeting, her aspirations for Wulin, and seeing the famous Lin Fang, now feeling only sweetness. Xiao Lan encouraged her to boldly express her love, urging her not to have regrets. Inspired by Xiao Lan’s words, Zhan Qinghong found the courage to visit Lin Fang’s room.
She asked him to squat down and, catching him off guard, kissed him before shyly running away, leaving Lin Fang overjoyed. In the following days, Lin Fang convened a housemaster meeting at the Lin House. He explained that Wulin had made great strides, and the court intended to honor them with a "Contribution Book" if they registered with local authorities, leaving a legacy for future generations. This announcement was met with skepticism.
Qiu An was the first to object, questioning the implications of government registration and taxation, fearing that Wulin would lose its autonomy. General Xiahou warned Qiu An against rebellious talk. Ji Xiaoran, taking advantage of the unrest, subtly highlighted Lin Fang’s close ties to the court and questioned his true intentions. He then openly challenged Lin Fang’s leadership, exposing the fact that Lin Fang lacked martial arts skills, which Ji Xiaoran called an "unsolved mystery."
Official Wen You interjected, reminding Ji Xiaoran of his past defeat by Lin Fang. General Xiahou defended Lin Fang, praising his wisdom in bringing peace to Wulin despite his lack of martial arts. However, Ji Xiaoran then dropped a bombshell: Lin Fang, as the director, had secretly taught the seven-star swordsmanship to others, a revelation that sent shockwaves through the gathered housemasters, who loudly declared Lin Fang unworthy of the Wulin clan's director position.
Episode 29 Recap
Xiao Lan eagerly prepared to attend the Wulin assembly, but Huo Yang suddenly blocked her path. After an argument where he declared he didn't want her to witness what was coming, he knocked her unconscious and carried her back to her room, seemingly concealing a secret. At the Wulin assembly, the various martial arts factions, long coveting the Seven-star Swordsmanship, seized the opportunity to turn against Lin Fang.
They loudly demanded he surrender the swordsmanship and step down from his position as director. A monk reminded Lin Fang of the sacred rules governing the Seven-star Swordsmanship, which stipulated it could only be held and practiced by the Wulin director and never transferred to others.
When questioned about breaking this rule, Lin Fang attempted to redirect the discussion, but he was interrupted by a representative from the Tianying clan, who, despite acknowledging Lin Fang’s past contributions, insisted that the Wulin rules could not be broken. Qiu An also expressed his disappointment, accusing Lin Fang of secretly colluding with the court and handing over the swordsmanship for personal gain, even suggesting he might offer it to the imperial court.
Lin Fang confessed he had indeed given the Seven-star Swordsmanship to Zhan Qinghong, but explained he did so under dire circumstances to save Mianyang City and its hundreds of thousands of inhabitants from rebel forces. He stated he had no regrets for his actions. The crowd, however, dismissed his explanation as glib and continued to demand his resignation and the return of the swordsmanship.
Zhan Qinghong vehemently defended Lin Fang, pointing out that the others were merely using the rules as an excuse to seize the leadership and the coveted swordsmanship for themselves. In a shocking turn, Huo Yang presented a ledger, publicly accusing Lin Fang of deceit. The ledger purportedly detailed crimes committed by the Yixuan and Qinglong clans, including the murder of Huo Yang’s parents by Li Muzhong, the Qinglong clan leader.
Huo Yang revealed he had initially submitted to Lin Fang because of this false ledger, but claimed he had endured humiliation to uncover the truth. He then declared that his only true master was the leader of the Qinglong clan, Li Muzhong, stunning Zhan Qinghong who expressed her disbelief and hurt, questioning if his discipleship was merely a pretense. Huo Yang confirmed his allegiance lay elsewhere and dramatically severed all ties with both Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong.
Following these revelations, Lin Fang chose to abdicate. He admitted to breaking the rules and expressed his readiness to take responsibility. He handed the director’s token to Qiu An, appointing him as the interim director and urging him to resist any alliance with the imperial court. Lin Fang also stated he was not the right candidate for the position and had long wished to step down.
He then entrusted the Seven-star Swordsmanship to Master Yuanhui of Jiming Temple, declaring that he no longer had the right to possess it. Ji Xiaoran, however, was not satisfied. He insisted that because Zhan Qinghong had learned the Seven-star Swordsmanship, she had violated Wulin rules and must pay with her life. He rallied the other martial artists to demand her death as penance.
Lin Fang interjected, offering his own life instead, but Zhan Qinghong refused, declaring that they would both be killed regardless. She announced her intention to fight her way out using the Zhan Family swordsmanship, rather than the Seven-star Swordsmanship, to clearly show that she was severing ties with the Wulin community that had turned against them out of greed. At that critical moment, Wen You intervened.
He proclaimed himself the deputy director and asserted that the director’s position should have been his. He accused Lin Fang of manipulating him with eloquent words to surrender his claim to leadership, and further claimed that Zhan Qinghong had exploited his feelings. Overwhelmed by Wen You’s apparent betrayal, Zhan Qinghong became despondent and resigned herself to punishment, only asking Wen You to spare Lin Fang.
Wen You then ruthlessly moved, expertly deflecting Ji Xiaoran's attack and severing Zhan Qinghong’s hand and foot tendons, crippling her martial arts. As she collapsed, Lin Fang caught her, cradling her as he slowly walked out, vowing to end all relations with Jiangdong Wulin.
Ji Xiaoran attempted to pursue them, but Xiahou Ying loudly warned the assembled martial artists against further bloodshed, reminding them that Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong had already relinquished their titles and the swordsmanship, and Zhan Qinghong’s martial arts were now crippled. Qiu An, as the interim director, intervened to stop the pursuit, bringing an end to the tragic scene. Wen You turned away, unable to bear witness, his heart filled with sorrow which he struggled to conceal.
Meanwhile, Xiao Lan awoke in her room. Huo Yang untied her, explaining he had prevented her from witnessing the assembly to spare her distress. She demanded to know what had happened to Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang. Just then, Ji Xiaoran burst in, asserting his intention to take over Lin House, claiming it no longer belonged to Lin Fang. Huo Yang firmly resisted, refusing to yield the residence to him. Outmatched in martial prowess, Ji Xiaoran eventually left.
Xiao Lan, confused and distraught by Huo Yang’s earlier actions, accused him of betraying his master. Huo Yang then revealed that his actions at the assembly were part of a contingency plan orchestrated by Lin Fang himself, designed to help Lin Fang escape. He swore that everything he had told their opponents was false, except for one truth: his genuine desire to marry Xiao Lan.
He also explained that Lin Fang had assigned them tasks and instructed them to remain at Lin House, awaiting further contact. Lin Fang, carrying the severely injured Zhan Qinghong, decided against immediately leaving the city, choosing instead to seek help from Wen Rou for treatment. Upon examination, Wen Rou found Zhan Qinghong’s injuries to her hands, feet, and tendons to be extensive.
She admitted her expertise did not lie in mending bones and tendons and was further alarmed by a strange pulse, revealing Zhan Qinghong had been poisoned. Lin Fang deduced the poison came from Ji Xiaoran's sword. Wen Rou could only provide a strong wound-healing medicine, stating that the long-term healing of her tendons and the detoxification would require alternative methods and rely on Zhan Qinghong's own recovery capabilities.
Lin Fang, burdened with guilt, blamed himself, believing his intricate plans had led to Zhan Qinghong's suffering. Zhan Qinghong, however, reassured him, urging him not to despair and confirmed her complete disillusionment with Wen You. Despite the urgency, Zhan Qinghong expressed a profound desire to leave Jun'an and return to the Zhan Family villa, seeking a peaceful life away from the martial world.
Unbeknownst to them, Ji Xiaoran met secretly with Zhong Buming, confirming that Yuanhui of Jiming Temple now held the Seven-star Swordsmanship. Zhong Buming immediately dispatched his men to Jiming Temple to kill Yuanhui and retrieve the swordsmanship. However, they soon discovered the book was blank, realizing Lin Fang had tricked them. Enraged, Zhong Buming immediately set off in pursuit of Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong.
As they were being pursued, Shen Yanzhi, realizing Zhong Buming’s formidable martial arts skills, knew they could not all escape. She urged Lin Fang to take Zhan Qinghong and flee, while she stayed behind to cover their retreat. Despite Lin Fang's pleas for her to come with them, Shen Yanzhi, weakened by poison, explained she wouldn't live much longer. She implored Lin Fang to live well, like a sister protecting him one last time, before sacrificing herself to hold off Zhong Buming.
Episode 30 Recap
Shen Yanzhi was killed, but Zhong Buming managed to escape. He relentlessly pursued Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong, cornering them at the edge of a cliff. Lin Fang initially intended to distract Zhong Buming, but Zhan Qinghong declared her desire to face death with him. Professing their love, they both leaped into the deep abyss, leaving no trace. News of their presumed demise spread through Wulin Rumors, causing great sorrow to Xiao Lan.
She adamantly refused to believe her mistress and the director were dead, confident in their resilience. Huo Yang comforted Xiao Lan, promising to stay by her side forever. Meanwhile, Zhong Buming reported back to Wang Bucheng, assuring him that the abyss was so deep that even if they survived the fall, they would starve, and given Zhan Qinghong’s injuries and Lin Fang’s perceived weakness, survival was impossible.
However, Wang Bucheng, wary of potential future complications, insisted that Zhong Buming continue the search, demanding to see their bodies, dead or alive. Wang Bucheng then ordered Zhong Buming to send Ji Xiaoran, a man known for poisoning his sword, to monitor Yuanhui at the Jiming Temple, suspecting the Seven-Star Swordsmanship was hidden there.
Zhong Buming’s attempt to volunteer for the mission was met with a sharp rebuke from Wang Bucheng, who then coerced another reluctant subordinate into assisting the search under threat of being thrown off the cliff. Zhan Qinghong slowly regained consciousness in a simple, clean room, finding Lin Fang unharmed beside her, though both were bound. Using a small dagger, she cut their ropes.
Lin Fang noticed that Zhan Qinghong's hands and feet could move freely again, her tendons having healed, and her wounds rebandaged. He concluded they must have been rescued by a reclusive master. They searched the courtyard for their benefactor but found no one and no food, making the place seem deserted. Hungry, Zhan Qinghong discovered a large wild ginseng growing in the courtyard.
After washing it, she and Lin Fang shared it, with Lin Fang playfully feeding her mouth-to-mouth, which surprised her despite the unpleasant taste. Their tender moment was interrupted by the sudden appearance of an old man, Jian Ling, who struck Zhan Qinghong, causing her to cough blood. Lin Fang confronted him furiously, but Zhan Qinghong realized the old man's strike had actually healed her, expelling residual toxins from her meridians.
Jian Ling, who had lived in the valley for decades, treating the ancient wild ginseng as his only companion and "treasure of the valley," was enraged that they had eaten his "best friend." He demanded they remain in the valley forever as his "ginseng dolls" to replace what they had consumed. Zhan Qinghong secretly called him an "old monster," especially as he began treating them like slaves, making them work ceaselessly for days.
Zhan Qinghong complained to Lin Fang about Jian Ling's unreasonable demands but admitted she was no match for his powerful martial arts. Lin Fang suggested they focus on healing and look for an opportunity to escape later.
That night, they shared a room, and Zhan Qinghong, using a bamboo stick as a symbolic boundary in the bed, recounted a Wulin Rumors tale of a woman who secretly loved a male classmate and used a stick to maintain distance while sharing a bed. Lin Fang, however, found the story sad and pointed out that the woman's actions hinted at affection, concluding that Zhan Qinghong must also harbor feelings for him.
Despite her claims of sleeping "quietly," Zhan Qinghong awoke the next morning to find herself tightly embracing Lin Fang. Startled, she confronted him, but he showed her bruises on his chest, claiming she had hit and kicked him in her sleep. Embarrassed, Zhan Qinghong covered her eyes. Lin Fang leaned in to kiss her, but a sudden flare of his poison forced him to turn away.
Jian Ling, having observed Lin Fang’s internal cold poison, deliberately assigned him an arduous task, demanding that he chop a large pile of firewood daily. Zhan Qinghong was indignant, believing Jian Ling was intentionally tormenting Lin Fang, especially when Lin Fang's hands became blistered from the labor. Lin Fang, however, remained calm, expressing gratitude for their rescue and even musing about the simple life of a peasant couple with Zhan Qinghong.
He reasoned that their current secluded location provided refuge from their pursuers. Jian Ling, observing Lin Fang's unwavering composure, pondered a "new way to force him to die." Unable to tolerate the harsh treatment any longer, Zhan Qinghong decided to escape with Lin Fang. They quickly realized they were trapped in a maze, walking in circles. As they attempted to flee, Jian Ling easily intercepted them, declaring that while Zhan Qinghong could leave, Lin Fang must remain. When Zhan Qinghong tried to protect Lin Fang, Jian Ling, enraged by her perceived ingratitude after he had saved their lives, threatened to cripple her again.
Episode 31 Recap
Jian Lin, convinced that Lin Fang deeply cared for Zhan Qinghong and determined to eradicate Lin Fang's cold poison through unconventional means, feigned an attack on Zhan Qinghong. This act provoked Lin Fang into a fit of agitation, causing him to vomit blood and collapse. Following this, Jian Lin began treating Lin Fang with his unique Bone Penetrating Needle.
Zhan Qinghong vehemently tried to stop him, believing he was harming Lin Fang, until Jian Lin revealed the true nature of Lin Fang's illness: the Golden Phoenix and Jade-like Dew, a rare and deadly poison from the West Yan Kingdom. Jian Lin explained that this poison lies dormant, like a bloody vine within the body, but is awakened by strong emotions, eventually rushing to the Jiquan acupoint, leading to instant death.
He cited Lin Fang's frequent chest pains and episodes of vomiting blood as symptoms. Zhan Qinghong was distraught, thinking Lin Fang was on the verge of death. Jian Lin then casually mentioned that the treatment would take “ten days,” but Zhan Qinghong misheard it as "running out of time," sending her into a fresh wave of tears.
Lin Fang, having regained consciousness, apologized for keeping his condition a secret, explaining that he had not wanted to burden her or cause her pain. He confessed that the poison had already ravaged his internal organs, leaving no hope for a traditional cure, and expressed his wish to spend his remaining days peacefully with her, free from the worry of his illness or the pursuit of a cure. Zhan Qinghong, though upset by his concealment, agreed to honor his wish.
Deeply moved by Lin Fang’s sincerity and the suffering he had endured, Zhan Qinghong sought out Jian Lin to plead for his intervention, even offering her own life as a medicinal catalyst. Jian Lin clarified that while there was no conventional antidote, he had a "seventy percent confidence" in a "poison-attacks-poison" approach, using a specially concocted nine treasure soup.
To Zhan Qinghong's dismay, Jian Lin then revealed that Lin Fang was already aware of this seventy percent chance and had deliberately kept it from her. Enraged by Lin Fang's continued deception, Zhan Qinghong impulsively poured an entire plate of extremely spicy Tianxin hot peppers, typically used to repel pests, into the soup Jian Lin was preparing. Lin Fang consumed the fiery soup without a single complaint, claiming it tasted sweet because it was made by Zhan Qinghong.
Skeptical, Zhan Qinghong tasted it herself and was overwhelmed by the intense spice, realizing she had made a terrible mistake. Feeling guilty, she asked Jian Lin to prepare a new batch. However, Jian Lin explained that the unique ingredients for the nine treasure soup, specifically nine different kinds of snake eggs, would take a full year to gather again, by which time Lin Fang would certainly be dead.
Lin Fang, unfazed by the spice, reiterated that any medicine would taste sweet if fed to him by Zhan Qinghong. He then playfully requested her to feed him the rest of the soup, which she lovingly did. Meanwhile, Hua Yao was overseeing the tidying of Wen You’s room when she discovered a sword box. Memories of Wen You's broken sword resurfaced, sparking her fear that he still harbored feelings for his old flame. Wen You arrived, intuitively understanding her concerns.
He promptly opened the box, revealing a new ceremonial sword, a gift from his master at Wuji Clan, and assured Hua Yao that his past was firmly behind him. Later, Hua Yao's cough, a lingering effect from a recent rain, worsened. Wen You showed genuine concern, came to her room, and even personally spoon-fed her medicine. Hua Yao was deeply touched by his care, shedding tears as she reminisced about their shared childhood.
Wen You comforted her, promising to remain by her side forever, as her devoted husband. Back at Tianxin Valley, Lin Fang attempted to resume his martial arts practice. He felt a profound weakness, expressing fear of becoming a "wasteman" but also jokingly hoping it would allow him to assert his "husband's dignity." During their playful banter, Lin Fang suddenly vomited blood and fainted once more.
Jian Lin explained that Lin Fang’s body was too weak to withstand the clash between the nine treasure soup’s medicinal properties and the deep-seated toxins. He reiterated his three-step detoxification process: arousing the toxin, solidifying the body's foundation, and dispersing the toxin. Since the nine treasure soup had failed to adequately strengthen Lin Fang’s foundation, Jian Lin introduced a new remedy: a potent five poison wine, believing its alcoholic strength would amplify the medicine’s effect.
Zhan Qinghong was aghast at the sight of the unappetizing wine and Jian Lin's casual admission that this was his first attempt with such a complex case. Convinced he was treating Lin Fang as a mere experiment, she tried to pull Lin Fang away, refusing the wine.
However, Lin Fang, seeing no other options, convinced her that this risky trial offered their only "glimmer of hope" for a future together, a future where he envisioned growing old with her and their children. Unable to argue against his resolve, Zhan Qinghong fetched Jian Lin's prized rice wine from his hidden stash, intending to share a drink with Lin Fang, so he wouldn't face the potent "five poison wine" alone.
Jian Lin, surprisingly, proved to be a light drinker, succumbing to sleep after just one cup of his own rice wine. Heavily intoxicated by the five poison wine, Lin Fang led Zhan Qinghong to a beautiful flower field within Tianxin Valley. Under the starlit sky, dotted with shooting stars, he poured out his heart, confessing his love for every facet of Zhan Qinghong's personality.
He recounted how she had been the first to truly see and approach him, how her selfless acts of kindness brought him peace and happiness, helping him reconnect with his former self, free from hatred. He playfully reminded her of a keepsake he had given her, solidifying their bond. Zhan Qinghong, deeply moved by his drunken, heartfelt confessions, reflected on their past misunderstandings and the time they had seemingly wasted. Realizing the depth of his sincerity, she leaned in and tenderly kissed him, sealing their love in a tight embrace.
Episode 32 Recap
Lin Fang and Jian Lin wake up embracing each other in Jian Lin's house in Tianxin Valley. Both are shocked by the unexpected situation. Zhan Qinghong explains that after drinking too much of the five poison wine the previous night, Lin Fang, who remembered nothing after two bowls, had wandered off to sleep with Jian Lin, whom she refers to as "the senior." Jian Lin remarks on the potent effects of the five poison wine.
Later, Wang Dun, the Prime Minister, inquires about the peace in Jun'an before tasking Wen You with pacifying Jiangdong Wulin, which has become leaderless and turbulent. Wen You accepts the difficult job, acknowledging that it might offend both Wulin heroes and court officials led by General Xiahou. Simultaneously, a storyteller from "Wulin Rumors" broadcasts news about the unstable Wulin situation. After the broadcast, he instructs a subordinate to send a message to Huo Yang, suggesting an underlying connection.
Wen You then summons various Wulin directors, including interim director Qiu An, to the Lin's house. He announces, on behalf of Prime Minister Wang, that all Jiangdong Wulin clans must register their members, operate strictly within court-approved boundaries, refrain from unauthorized border crossings, and pay monthly Wulin taxes. Qiu An voices strong opposition, stating that Wulin affairs should be managed by Wulin people and the court should not interfere. Other directors are also unwilling to comply.
Huo Yang denounces Wen You as a "contemptible villain" and a "snob married to a princess" who is merely using his position to accumulate wealth, and defiantly declares his refusal to comply. To enforce compliance, Wen You's men then reveal personal items belonging to the directors' family members, indicating that they have been taken hostage. Wen You assures the directors that their loved ones are safe and will remain so if they pledge loyalty to him.
Qiu An, though still expressing his dissatisfaction, shares his belief that true ambition comes from tranquility, not material wealth, and warns Wen You that he will not tolerate any actions that harm the people of Jiangdong, but ultimately gives in. Huo Yang, however, calls Ji Xiaoran a "double-dealing villain" for his involvement in taking Xiao Lan. Faced with the safety of his loved ones, Huo Yang is also forced to comply.
Wen You then proudly declares that Jiangdong Wulin is now under his firm control, establishing the Wulin Division to oversee all clans for national service. Elsewhere, the three demons of the nether world meet, and Zhong Buming praises their leader's intricate scheme, which has successfully brought Jiangdong Wulin under their control and manipulated Wen You to deal with any resistance.
Zhong Buming, calling Wen You "stupid" and easily exploitable, asks their leader if he, too, will be manipulated, a concern quickly dismissed by a comrade. Wang Bucheng, the leader, asserts that anyone with ambition and desire can be used. He instructs Zhong Buming to ignore Wen You for the time being and focus on Jiming Temple, then asks if there is any news from Ji Xiaoran regarding Jiming Temple, reminding Zhong Buming to report immediately once received.
Zhong Buming then inquires about the Seven-star swordsmanship, hoping to see it. Although Zhan Qinghong's bones are mended, she is unable to resume martial arts practice. Jian Lin tasks her with chopping wood and carrying water, seemingly to be difficult, but Lin Fang perceives this as a clever method to strengthen her foundation and solidify her reconnected bones.
Zhan Qinghong initially complains about the seemingly pointless chores, especially the insistence on perfectly uniform firewood for Lin Fang's medicine, but Lin Fang's insight leads Jian Lin to playfully chide him for observing his wife too much, then assigns Lin Fang to pound medicine. Later, Jian Lin prepares for the final step of Lin Fang's detoxification: transmitting power.
He instructs Zhan Qinghong to feed Lin Fang medicine and wipe his sweat, but then surprisingly demands to be fed medicine himself to maintain his strength for the power transfer. Zhan Qinghong diligently attends to both, feeding medicine and wiping sweat from each man. After the arduous process, Jian Lin first feigns uncertainty but then triumphantly announces Lin Fang's complete recovery, pointing out the vanished blood spots and strong pulse.
Overjoyed, Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong express their profound gratitude, while Jian Lin proudly declares himself peerless in his medical prowess. With Lin Fang fully recovered, he and Zhan Qinghong share an intimate night. The next morning, they awaken embracing each other, affirming their enduring bond. After Master Yuanhui's passing, his junior brother Yuanneng visits Wen You at the consort's mansion, under the watchful eye of Ji Xiaoran.
Yuanneng explains his urgent request, clarifying that Master Yuanhui had not wished for a formal ceremony after his death. Praising Wen You's loyalty, diligence, and past position as deputy director, Yuanneng reveals that his decision concerns the very survival of Jiangdong Wulin. He explains that after Lin Fang returned the Seven-star swordsmanship, Yuanneng took it back to Jiming Temple.
There, Master Yuanhui, anticipating a plot by villains, had preemptively swapped the real swordsmanship, preventing it from falling into the hands of the three demons of the nether world when they later attempted to steal it.
Yuanneng confirms that the real Seven-star swordsmanship is no longer at Jiming Temple, but that he has brought it to Wen You, believing him, with the support of interim director Qiu An and the court, to be the most capable protector against the Western Yan Kingdom's conspiracy. Wen You assures Yuanneng he will safeguard it.
Meanwhile, Ji Xiaoran reports to Wang Bucheng, confirming that Yuanneng visited Wen You's residence and left without a large package he had carried in, leading them to conclude that the Seven-star swordsmanship is now in Wen You's possession. Later, while Wen You is visiting Wang Dun, Housemaster Mou storms into the Prime Minister's mansion, demanding "blood for blood" for his deceased mother from both Wang Dun and Wen You.
Housemaster Mou attacks Wen You with concealed weapons, forcing him to retreat. Wang Dun then retaliates with a "Firing Palm" and kills Housemaster Mou, dramatically revealing his true identity as the "King of Million Demons, Wang Bucheng." Wang Bucheng challenges Wen You, asking if he is afraid, but Wen You maintains his composure, continuing to address him as "Grandpa" and asserting their family connection through Hua Yao.
To demonstrate his loyalty, Wen You then presents the Seven-star swordsmanship to Wang Bucheng, explaining that Yuanneng had entrusted it to him, and it is fitting for the court to possess such a symbol of Wulin. Wang Bucheng praises Wen You as a "smart, good boy," acknowledging their family bond and entrusting him with his "legacy and great career," as well as dealing with any dissenting voices in Jun'an.
Upon returning to his residence, Wen You is met with joyful news from Hua Yao: she is pregnant. He is delighted, and a little worried, promising to be a devoted father who will ensure their child lives a happy, carefree, and safe life, free from the worries and difficult experiences he faced. He instructs Hua Yao to delegate household duties to her female officials to avoid overexertion.
Determined to leave Tianxin Valley, Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang attempt to find an exit. Along the way, Lin Fang playfully suggests they stay and have many children, a notion Zhan Qinghong rejects, preferring a life solely with him. She then expresses her reluctance to abandon the outside world, proposing they face it together, even if it means a tragic end like the butterfly lovers, a story Lin Fang dislikes, as he envisions a brighter future for them.
Their conversation is cut short when they realize the seemingly harmless fog is actually poisonous miasma, causing them to collapse. Jian Lin, who discovers and brings them back, scolds them for their recklessness and his own effort, but Zhan Qinghong challenges him, asking why he didn't warn them about the miasma. Jian Lin retorts that he keeps them safe from pursuers in his secluded Tianxin Small House.
Lin Fang, adopting a more diplomatic approach, expresses deep gratitude for Jian Lin's healing and protection, hinting at a familial connection. Lin Fang then deduces Jian Lin's true identity: the legendary "Divine Doctor Jian Lin," who achieved "world's best" status before leaving home, making him Zhan Qinghong's martial uncle and Su Qianhong's senior brother. Zhan Qinghong immediately confronts Jian Lin, questioning his "heartless and unreasonable" actions in trapping them, especially when her mother (his junior sister) awaits justice.
Jian Lin, in turn, calls Zhan Qinghong "stupid," reiterating that his actions are for her safety. Lin Fang intervenes, articulating their duty as martial artists to uphold loyalty and filial piety, emphasizing that ignoring the Western Yan Kingdom's villains and their unavenged mother would be disloyal and unfilial. Conceding their arguments, Jian Lin finally offers a condition for their departure: Zhan Qinghong must defeat him. Lin Fang protests, pointing out that Zhan Qinghong has only just recovered and cannot possibly defeat the "best in the world."
Episode 33 Recap
Zhan Qinghong and Jian Lin engaged in a sparring match, where Jian Lin set clear boundaries: Zhan Qinghong would win if she touched him within a designated circle, but lose if she stepped out. Zhan Qinghong, who had blindly chosen to use Cloud Swordsmanship, was effortlessly disarmed by Jian Lin in the first move, sending her tumbling to the ground. Before her attempt, Zhan Qinghong had consulted Lin Fang on whether to use Cloud or Bolting Swordsmanship.
Lin Fang suggested the more potent Seven-star swordsmanship, but Zhan Qinghong firmly refused, explaining that she had vowed against using it after the Wulin assembly due to the troubles it caused, prioritizing her integrity over a perceived advantage. Lin Fang pledged his full support, and despite Jian Lin's impatience, Zhan Qinghong initiated her attack.
Admitting defeat, Zhan Qinghong expressed deep concern for the escalating situation in Jun'an, particularly with Wen You's growing power after Qiu An's apparent defection, fearing that the entire Jiangdong Wulin might be no match for him. She vowed to confront Qiu An if she ever escaped. Jian Lin lightheartedly suggested they remain in the valley to settle down and start a family, even offering to help raise their children.
Lin Fang initially found this appealing, though Zhan Qinghong quickly dismissed it, emphasizing their urgent need to return. Playfully, Zhan Qinghong declared Lin Fang would sleep outside that night for his lack of seriousness. Meanwhile, Wen You met with General Xiahou Ying in Jun'an. Wen You claimed that the court's integration of Wulin was progressing smoothly with widespread support, but Xiahou Ying hinted at different information.
Wen You then revealed Prime Minister Wang Dun's expectation that Xiahou Ying cease his opposition. Wen You argued for the national benefit of Wulin's integration, while dismissing the resistance as short-sighted. Xiahou Ying, however, accused Wen You of using the court's agenda for personal gain, noting his transformation from a naive youth. Wen You defended his ambition, reminding Xiahou Ying of his past advice to prioritize state service over romance, and denied any lingering feelings for Zhan Qinghong.
Xiahou Ying retorted that true detachment would preclude such ruthlessness towards former acquaintances, confirming Wen You's change. When Xiahou Ying declared he would not collude with Wang Dun, stating his sole loyalty was to the Emperor, Wen You attempted to appeal to their personal connections: Xiahou Ying's past mentorship and his relationship with Wen Rou, Wen You's sister, suggesting a harmonious family alliance.
Xiahou Ying was disgusted by Wen You's willingness to exploit his own sister for political gain, firmly stating their irreconcilable differences and departing with a warning for Wen You not to waste further efforts. Wen You darkly warned Xiahou Ying that their next encounter would be as adversaries on the battlefield. This entire conversation was observed by an accompanying eunuch.
At Xiao Lan's forge, she was crafting a new sword from old Zhan Family weapons, inspired by Huo Yang's unwavering belief that her master would return. Huo Yang confessed his gratitude for her presence. While hoping for Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong's return, Xiao Lan acknowledged they must also prepare for the possibility of their absence. General Xiahou Ying arrived with Qiu An, prompting an angry outburst from Huo Yang, who denounced Qiu An as a traitor.
Xiahou Ying calmed the situation, revealing that both Huo Yang's public denouncement of Lin Fang at the Wulin assembly and Qiu An's apparent defection were meticulously pre-arranged by Lin Fang to preserve their forces. Xiahou Ying explained that Lin Fang had instructed him to reveal this truth at the "right time," which had come, as Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong might indeed not return.
Qiu An added that Wen You's destabilization of Wulin and direct threats to Xiahou Ying necessitated this urgent disclosure. Acknowledging his own potential danger, Xiahou Ying entrusted them with the future, calling them the "new hope of Wulin." He ordered Qiu An to secretly deploy forces near Jun'an to protect the Emperor and instructed Huo Yang to travel covertly to Mianyang to contact the garrison. Xiahou Ying also assigned four guards to protect Xiao Lan.
Despite Qiu An's concerns about confronting Wen You, Xiahou Ying urged them to never give up and to trust in themselves. Before his departure, Xiahou Ying visited Wen Rou to bid farewell. He thanked her for her calming presence at Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong's wedding and presented her with a small gift: his birth details.
Wen Rou, understanding the profound gesture, playfully accepted his "cheap gift" but made one earnest request: that he return safely, as she would be waiting to marry him. Xiahou Ying made a solemn vow, declaring that he would marry no one but her in this lifetime. Wen Rou embraced him. In a separate development, Wang Dun received Wen You.
Wen You informed Wang Dun of Princess Hua Yao's pregnancy, bringing immense joy to Wang Dun, who saw this as the establishment of a vital bloodline for the Wang clan and strengthening his resolve to usurp the throne. Dismissing his attendants, Wang Dun then probed Wen You's thoughts on the position of Prime Minister, hinting at his own ambition beyond mere ministerial power.
When Wen You, initially terrified of the grave consequences of regicide, feigned ignorance and pleaded for his unborn child, Wang Dun saw through his pretense, noting the ambition in Wen You's eyes. Wen You then pledged his complete allegiance. Wang Dun revealed his true intention to usurp the throne, explaining that as he had no male heirs, Wen You's child with Hua Yao could become his chosen successor. Grateful, Wen You promised the full support of his entire family.
Wang Dun then outlined his plan: the Emperor would soon leave the palace for an imperial sacrifice, passing through the Temporary Palace. Wen You, overseeing the Emperor's security for this journey, was tasked with orchestrating the assassination. Still determined to leave the valley, Zhan Qinghong conspired with Lin Fang to drug Jian Lin. She instructed Lin Fang to prepare porridge, into which she heavily dosed "Soul-losing Powder" and "Tendon-melting Ointment," potent enough to immobilize an ox.
Zhan Qinghong was confident, recalling her accidental success in using drugs to defeat Huo Yang. Lin Fang, however, expressed skepticism, reminding her that Jian Lin was a medic genius unlikely to fall for such a simple trick, especially with his own medicine. Zhan Qinghong, feigning sincere apology for her past impulsiveness, presented the spiked porridge to Jian Lin. He, however, was immediately suspicious and insisted Lin Fang taste it first. Lin Fang, wanting to dispel suspicion, took a mouthful.
Jian Lin, appearing satisfied, announced his departure from the valley to listen to "Wulin Rumors," an activity he undertook monthly, and instructed them to air his duvet. He left, taking the unconsumed porridge with him. Moments later, Lin Fang collapsed, completely paralyzed. Zhan Qinghong panicked, blaming herself for the excessive dosage. Despite his condition, Lin Fang humorously remarked that Jian Lin had undoubtedly known of their scheme and merely intended to teach them a lesson, thus he would not die.
They subsequently discovered the antidote cleverly hidden within Jian Lin's duvet. After taking the antidote, Lin Fang playfully teased Zhan Qinghong, likening the sensation of the drug to looking at her – making him "dizzy" or "enamored." Zhan Qinghong, in mock anger, chased him. Later, Jian Lin, now in a bustling market, listened to "Wulin Rumors."
The storyteller was praising Wen You's meteoric rise, his background as the son of a high-ranking official, his marriage to Princess Hua Yao, and his alliance with Prime Minister Wang Dun, which had allegedly brought peace to Wulin, implemented new policies, consolidated Jiangdong Wulin, and earned him imperial favor. Suddenly, a severely wounded Feng Bufei stumbled into the market, collapsing into a wine bowl near Jian Lin. Jian Lin examined him, noting he had been injured by Seven-star swordsmanship.
A flashback revealed the source of Feng Bufei's injuries: a treacherous confrontation within the Three Nether Demons in a secret chamber. Wang Dun, revealing his true intention to usurp the throne and abandon his partners, met with Feng Bufei and Zhong Buming. After discussing the weakening Xiao Empire and the powerful Xi Yan, Wang Dun stated his intention to become King and eliminate them to ensure his secrecy.
Zhong Buming expressed disbelief, reminding Wang Dun of their past camaraderie, but Wang Dun callously dismissed their bond, stating he had only flattered them to exploit their capabilities, calling them "one useless, one crazy." Zhong Buming angrily attacked, but Wang Dun retaliated. Valuing their brotherhood despite Zhong Buming's misdeeds, Zhong Buming heroically shielded Feng Bufei from Wang Dun's deadly strike.
Before succumbing to his injuries, Zhong Buming urged "Second Feng" (Feng Bufei) to escape and remember his promise to expose Wang Dun (who was previously known as Wang Bucheng) to the Jianghu, ensuring he would have no place in either Xi Yan or Da Xiao. Feng Bufei fled the chamber, eventually collapsing in the market where Jian Lin found him and brought him to Tianxin Valley.
Back in Tianxin Valley, Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong, having returned to their cabin, discovered Feng Bufei on their bed. Jian Lin explained he had found Feng Bufei and brought him back. Recognizing their long-standing enemy, Zhan Qinghong immediately declared her intense hatred and tied him up in the yard, accusing him of her family's massacre. Feng Bufei vehemently denied the accusation, claiming he was present but had killed no one.
Jian Lin surprisingly corroborated Feng Bufei's denial, deeming it inappropriate to punish him for a crime he didn't commit. As Zhan Qinghong's fury subsided, Lin Fang stepped in, stating that if Feng Bufei was not Zhan Qinghong's target, then he himself had a score to settle for the past branding. Feng Bufei, remembering Lin Fang's past branding, asked if Lin Fang intended to brand his name on him.
Lin Fang stated a name was too trivial; instead, he planned to brand a full two-hundred-word thank-you note onto Feng Bufei's body. Horrified, Feng Bufei protested the pain and the sheer amount of text. Lin Fang countered by asking if Feng Bufei, who purportedly cherished unique items, wouldn't appreciate becoming a "talking, breathing human book." Jian Lin, finding the concept amusing and adhering to the principle of "returning gifts," encouraged Lin Fang to proceed, eager to witness such a "man-book."
Feng Bufei desperately appealed to Jian Lin for intervention, but Jian Lin remained firm, urging Lin Fang to begin. Meanwhile, Wang Dun's subordinate reported that Feng Bufei had not been seen since his last appearance at "Wulin Rumors," implying he hadn't had the chance to expose anything. Wang Dun ordered his men to kill Feng Bufei on sight if he ever resurfaced. Back in Tianxin Valley, a desperate Feng Bufei offered all his treasures for mercy.
Lin Fang, uninterested, pressed him for the identity of Wang Bucheng. Feng Bufei, trusting Lin Fang, finally confessed that "Wang Bucheng" was none other than Wang Dun, stunning Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong with the revelation.
Episode 34 Recap
Feng Bufei, fearing torture, reveals to Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong that Wang Bucheng is in fact Wang Dun. He states that Wang Dun is the one who killed Lin Xiaotian and the Zhan Family, and that Wang Dun wants to become emperor and even tried to kill him using the Seven-star swordsmanship. Although Zhan Qinghong initially doubts Feng Bufei's sincerity, Lin Fang acknowledges Feng Bufei's profound insight, deciding not to torment him further for the time being.
Jian Lin, however, seems to find amusement in Feng Bufei's plight, making him fetch water, chop wood, and cook daily. If Feng Bufei displeases him, Jian Lin readily uses silver needles on him, causing Feng Bufei great pain but leaving him unable to openly complain. Zhan Qinghong is deeply troubled by the revelation that Wang Dun, a man she views as completely evil, wields such power and aims to usurp the throne.
She fears that if Wang Dun is not stopped, the people of Xiao Empire will be enslaved and all who oppose him will face disaster. Lin Fang agrees that Wang Dun's strength is formidable, especially with his mastery of the Seven-star swordsmanship. He believes Zhan Qinghong must continue practicing the Seven-star swordsmanship herself to have any hope of defeating him.
Zhan Qinghong is torn, as she had previously sworn before the Wulin community in Jiangdong to abandon and never again practice the Seven-star swordsmanship. Lin Fang reassures her, pointing out that many heroes have faced difficult choices between personal vows and national duty.
He explains that the fate of the country is not decided by a single person or a single sword, and encourages her to do her best without putting too much pressure on herself, promising his unwavering support regardless of her decision. Over the next few days, Zhan Qinghong struggles to make progress, unable to fully grasp the sword art's intricate formulas. Lin Fang, with his exceptional insight, integrates his knowledge and personally guides her.
He explains that the Seven-star swordsmanship comprises not only sword techniques but also underlying military strategies and mental cultivation. He elucidates the meanings of several complex formulas, such as "Sword hits the heavenly gate and sees Alkaid," which aims to control rather than injure, and "controlling the wolf and chasing the sun," which demands a decisive, no-retreat approach to intimidate foes.
He also explains "dragon roaring at sun" and "The seven stars are hidden," which signify advanced internal energy manipulation and a decisive conclusion, respectively. With Lin Fang's guidance, Zhan Qinghong begins to achieve an initial mastery of the Seven-star swordsmanship, though he admits he is still puzzled by the sixth formula, "Assistant entering the hall quickly." Meanwhile, Feng Bufei secretly watches their training, marveling at the swordplay. Zhan Qinghong, angered by his peeking, warns him fiercely.
Jian Lin steps in to stop her, claiming Feng Bufei is his servant. Feng Bufei, defiant, provokingly remarks that Wang Bucheng's swordsmanship is far superior. After Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong depart, Jian Lin discovers that Feng Bufei has mistakenly chopped valuable Phoebe wood as firewood. Enraged, Jian Lin punishes him with two more needles and drags him back to their hut.
Concerned about his identity being exposed by Feng Bufei, Wang Dun decides to execute his plan earlier than anticipated to prevent any irreversible complications. He tasks Ji Xiaoran with assassinating Xiahou Ying. However, Wen You arrives with his troops, intercepting Ji Xiaoran's attempt. Instead of killing him, Wen You arrests Xiahou Ying under the pretext of "colluding with rebels to assassinate the prime minister," and orders his detention at Dali Temple for interrogation.
Ji Xiaoran, having failed to accomplish his mission, returns to inform Wang Dun. Wen You then personally visits Wang Dun to apologize for his actions, explaining his reasoning. He observes Wang Dun's practice of the Seven-star swordsmanship, noting that despite his mastery, it depletes his internal energy and can lead to qi deviation.
Temporarily suppressing his suspicion about this, Wen You reveals that Jun'an's Imperial Guards number in the tens of thousands across six camps, with five of them fiercely loyal to Xiahou Ying, despite the Guerilla camp being supported by Wang Dun. Wen You argues that Xiahou Ying's sudden death would only provoke suspicion and unrest among the loyal generals.
Instead, he proposes keeping Xiahou Ying alive, using him as a pawn to control the other generals, a strategy akin to "holding the emperor hostage to command the feudal lords." Wang Dun, momentarily suffering internal energy depletion after practicing the Seven-star swordsmanship, sees the wisdom in Wen You's plan and accepts his explanation. He promises Wen You a share of the empire once he becomes emperor.
However, when Wen Rou learns of Xiahou Ying's arrest, she storms into the House Consort and confronts Wen You. She argues that Xiahou Ying is an honorable man and not a conspirator, questioning Wen You's motives and accusing him of becoming a "bad person" who harms his friends. Wen You asserts that he is acting righteously, claiming their future is predetermined by their noble birth, and that going with the flow is the only path to success.
Wen Rou fiercely disagrees, urging him to take control of his own destiny, explaining that true destiny lies beyond current constraints. Wen You dismisses her as naive, warning her that her defiance could endanger the Wen Family. Hua Yao, distressed by the siblings' escalating conflict, intervenes and promises Wen Rou that she will arrange for her to visit Xiahou Ying.
Because Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong have been spending time together instead of practicing, causing Feng Bufei to stew in impatience, coupled with Jian Lin's constant needling, Feng Bufei finally erupts in anger. He struggles against the silver needles, inadvertently triggering a powerful reaction that miraculously cures his lifelong twitching disorder. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he realizes Jian Lin's deliberate use of needles was a form of treatment.
Feng Bufei, now fully cured, pledges his undying loyalty to Jian Lin, who dismisses his thanks, stating he only acts out of interest in rare diseases and warns Feng Bufei to keep his conduct clean within his Tianxin building. Jian Lin, as usual, goes to listen to the "Wulin Rumors," but is annoyed that the storyteller deliberately withholds the ending, leaving him frustrated.
Lin Fang, however, understands that this incomplete storytelling is a coded message left by Huo Yang, signifying that "all preparations are complete, and only the final step remains." Lin Fang attempts to enlist Jian Lin to deliver a golden hairpin to his friends outside the valley, hoping to send word of their safety. Jian Lin, suspicious of Lin Fang's motives, initially refuses, believing it to be a ploy for escape.
Lin Fang denies any such intention, acknowledging the difficulty of escaping the valley. Jian Lin ultimately agrees to consider it, telling him to leave the hairpin. Feng Bufei also tries to team up with Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong to find a way out, but they decline, prioritizing their sword training. That evening, Zhan Qinghong confides in Lin Fang about her struggles with the Seven-star swordsmanship, expressing concern that she might lose her hair from the intense study.
Lin Fang, misunderstanding, humorously offers to find her hair growth medicine, which leads to some playful banter. He then seriously assures her of his unwavering support, promising to be more attentive and to always be by her side. Later, while Zhan Qinghong rests, Lin Fang sits alone, continuing to meticulously study the perplexing sixth sword formula, "Assistant entering the hall quickly." He notices Jian Lin secretly leaving their hut and follows him, which leads him to discover a mysterious mountain cave.
Episode 35 Recap
Lin Fang woke Zhan Qinghong and led her to a cave where the Nine Stars of the Big Dipper were carved on the wall, notably including two additional hidden stars: Zuo Fu (the Left Assistant) and You Bi (the Right Assistant). Lin Fang theorized that these stars were key to understanding the hidden aspects of the Seven-star swordsmanship. Noticing Jian Ling secretly observing them, they pretended to be interested in picking some Sanqing fruit.
As expected, Jian Ling rushed out, demanding his Sanqing fruit back. Zhan Qinghong, in defiance, swallowed the fruit. To their surprise, Jian Ling reacted not with anger but with praise, explaining that he had deliberately led them there to grasp the Seven-star swordsmanship. He also intended for Zhan Qinghong to consume the miraculous fruit, which would not only rebuild her muscles and bones and regenerate her blood but also enhance her martial arts by over two decades.
Zhan Qinghong quickly grasped the essence of the Seven-star swordsmanship's formulas. Jian Ling then declared he would release them from the valley, but only if Zhan Qinghong could defeat him. Meanwhile, Wen Rou visited Xiahou Ying in prison. Using the pretext of delivering pastries, she passed him a message. During their conversation, Xiahou Ying expressed his belief that he might die and urged Wen Rou to forget him, stating he might not be able to marry her.
He asked her to forget him as his last wish. Wen Rou's message for Huo Yang contained the date "October 16th," but Huo Yang couldn't decipher its meaning and decided to wait for Qiu An's return to discuss it. Shortly after, an envoy from Wulin Rumors delivered a golden hairpin, which Xiao Lan immediately recognized as the one Qiu An had given to Zhan Qinghong.
Seeing the hairpin, Xiao Lan was overwhelmed with emotion, realizing that Zhan Qinghong was still alive. The time for the duel arrived. Initially, Zhan Qinghong seemed to lack confidence, and her sword movements were chaotic, leading even Feng Bufei to believe Jian Ling would surely win. However, Zhan Qinghong employed a clever strategy, counting on Jian Ling's reluctance to harm her.
She used a "self-sacrifice" move, a tactic called "crazy wolf hunting the moon," turning the tables on him and defeating Jian Ling. Jian Ling conceded his defeat, acknowledging that Lin Fang had understood his weakness and had advised Zhan Qinghong to exploit it, combining her fearlessness with his wisdom. He then shared his deep understanding of the Seven-star swordsmanship with Zhan Qinghong, emphasizing principles of fluidity and unity between person and sword.
Lin Fang, in turn, inquired about the consequences of missing a specific formula, learning that it would result in a fatal "weak point" in one's martial arts. Before they left the valley, Jian Ling gifted them a wild ginseng for Lin Fang and a precious sword named Ming Di Liu for Zhan Qinghong. Feng Bufei attempted to follow them out but was stopped by Jian Ling, who intended to keep him in the valley for continued "treatment."
Later, as Huo Yang was sharpening his sabre, Xiao Lan by his side, they were stunned to see Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang approaching. Xiao Lan rushed to embrace Zhan Qinghong, overjoyed by her return, and the group reunited, reflecting on their changed circumstances. That night, Wen Rou fabricated a story about her mother's illness to trick Wen You into leaving his residence and bringing him to a meeting point outside the city with Lin Fang and the others.
Huo Yang and Xiao Lan, still believing Wen You a traitor, were initially confused to see him and Lin Fang exchange a cordial handshake and smile. Lin Fang clarified the situation, explaining that before the Wulin assembly, he had secretly met with Wen You and Xiahou Ying. Together, they planned to uncover the mastermind behind the current events and their connection to Wang Dun. Wen You agreed to act as an undercover agent within Wang Dun's inner circle.
To facilitate this, Lin Fang planned to relinquish his position as the martial arts leader and release a re-written Seven-star swordsmanship manual with a missing formula, thus luring their true enemy into the open. Lin Fang admitted that while his overall plan was thorough, certain events were unforeseen. Wen You's act of severing Zhan Qinghong's tendons, for instance, was an impromptu decision made to save her life.
Similarly, the arrests of Xiahou Ying and the subjugation of the martial artists to the court were unexpected but ultimately served to protect them. Huo Yang, realizing his mistake, apologized to Wen You. Wen You, accepting the apology, then divulged Wang Dun's complete plan. Wang Dun intended to launch his coup at the Temporary Palace the following day when the Emperor was scheduled to rest there after a heavenly worship ceremony.
Lin Fang outlined their counter-plan: they would arrange for Xiahou Ying's release after Wang Dun departed. Xiahou Ying, with his high prestige among the Imperial Guards, would then lead them to rescue the Emperor. Huo Yang confirmed he had already contacted Luo Wu and other allies as per Xiahou Ying's instructions, and Qiu An had secretly prepared an ambush near Jun'an, awaiting the opportune moment to strike. The greatest current concern, they agreed, was Wang Dun's mastery of the potent Seven-star swordsmanship, which raised doubts about Zhan Qinghong's ability to defeat him.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
With the war looming, Lin Fang expressed confidence, but his allies harbored deep concerns, particularly regarding Wang Dun, whose formidable martial arts were now augmented by the mastered Seven-star swordsmanship. Lin Fang revealed his clever ploy: when copying the sword manual, he deliberately omitted a crucial formula. This omission, "The chaos of Qi is endless. Knowing to balance your Qi is necessary," would prevent Wang Dun from properly regulating his Qi, leading to internal imbalance and eventual death.
Wen You recalled seeing Wang Dun clutch his right ribs in pain while practicing, pinpointing the Jingmen point as his potential weakness. Lin Fang confirmed this was indeed Wang Dun's vulnerable spot, and Wen You eagerly recognized this as their critical chance to turn the tide. Before the impending battle, Huo Yang presented Zhan Qinghong with a newly forged sword, explaining that he had kept and painstakingly reforged her old sword from the Lin House, believing she would eventually return.
Zhan Qinghong, already possessing an ancient blade, gratefully accepted it for safekeeping. Seeing that Wen You lacked a suitable weapon, as his own Jue sword was broken, Zhan Qinghong offered him the reforged sword. Wen You gladly accepted, confident it would make him a more potent force. Meanwhile, emotions ran high. Xiao Lan confronted Huo Yang, ensuring his sword was sharpened, and making him promise not to be reckless but to return alive, sealing their vow with a tight embrace.
Hua Yao, feeling a deep sense of unease and mentioning her baby’s frequent movements, begged Wen You not to leave. He gently reassured her, caressing her belly and telling their unborn child to be good until his swift return. Hua Yao still clung to him, reminding him of their past visits to the Qinhuai River Lantern Festival and hoping they could go again upon his return, a wish Wen You readily granted.
Zhan Qinghong, preoccupied with worries about the upcoming battle and whether her Seven-star swordsmanship was truly perfected, found solace in Lin Fang's embrace. When he told her, "You have me," her anxious heart immediately calmed. Lin Fang then confessed his profound contentment, saying he had known her name, heard her voice, felt her tenderness, and held her. He declared that from that moment on, she was the paradise of his life.
The next day, the Emperor’s procession for the sacrificial ceremony drew large crowds, protected by Imperial Guards. Hua Yao fussed over Wen You's clothes at the House Consort, her premonitions weighing heavily on her. Wen You soothed her, promising to return quickly. He then gently addressed their unborn child, urging it to be good and listen to its mother until his father's return. Wen You then followed Wang Dun's instructions, assisting in the plan.
At the Xuanyang Gate, Wang Dun approached the Temporary Palace, telling the Imperial Guards he was there to "welcome the Emperor" for an "auspicious time." When the eunuch stated the Emperor was resting, Wang Dun shockingly declared it was the auspicious time for "my enthronement" and ordered his men to attack. Inside, Wang Dun personally murdered the Emperor’s eunuch, witnessed by Wen You. Wen You then swiftly killed Ji Xiaoran.
Just as Wang Dun processed these events, the palace gates burst open, and Xiahou Ying, leading the Imperial Guards, surrounded the Temporary Palace. Xiahou Ying announced their mission to arrest rebels under imperial command. Wang Dun, defiant, accused Xiahou Ying of rebellion and illegal troop deployment. Xiahou Ying produced an imperial edict, confirming their orders. Wang Dun, undeterred, declared that after today, he would be emperor and Xiahou Ying the true rebel.
He rallied his men, promising wealth to his supporters and death to his opponents, ordering them to kill without mercy. Despite his plan's collapse, Wang Dun remained fearless. Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang dramatically entered the fray, descending into the battle. They and their allies fought through the rebel forces, reaching the Changsheng Hall, where they found Wang Dun brazenly seated on the main throne, a picture of arrogant conquest.
Wang Dun’s martial arts proved exceptionally powerful, even overwhelming the combined efforts of Huo Yang, Wen You, and Zhan Qinghong. While Zhan Qinghong was locked in combat, Wen You attempted to strike Wang Dun, hoping to exploit his perceived weakness. However, Wang Dun had ingeniously integrated the Seven-star swordsmanship with his unique internal kung fu, making himself seemingly invulnerable without a discernible weak point. Wang Dun shattered Wen You's sword and struck him down.
With his dying breath, Wen You entrusted Hua Yao and their unborn child to Zhan Qinghong and Lin Fang's care before succumbing to his injuries. Huo Yang’s subsequent attack was repelled, leaving him unconscious. Zhan Qinghong then fiercely engaged Wang Dun with the Seven-star swordsmanship.
Lin Fang, having keenly observed Wang Dun's combat patterns, recognized his predictability and guided Zhan Qinghong to forget all conventional sword techniques, urging her to "think on your feet" and "use whatever you want," echoing the principle of "let both subject and object be dissolved." Embracing this new fluid style, Zhan Qinghong fought with renewed intensity, surprising Wang Dun with unpredictable moves like "Calling back the tiger to make the mountain collapse."
Lin Fang then directed her to attack Wang Dun's gall bladder, explaining it was essential for storing Qi to power his Seven-star swordsmanship, despite Wang Dun's claims of invulnerability. When Wang Dun denied this, Lin Fang cunningly advised Zhan Qinghong to strike his throat instead, to make him lose breath, rendering the exact weak point less critical. Taken by surprise, Wang Dun was cornered. Lin Fang observed that Zhan Qinghong no longer needed his guidance.
In a desperate final act, Wang Dun unleashed a poisonous powder, vowing to take them all with him. Seizing the moment, Lin Fang struck Wang Dun's vital point with a knife, killing him on the very throne he had so desperately coveted. Zhan Qinghong, finally avenging her family, expressed hope for peace in the Xiao Empire. Xiahou Ying’s Imperial Guards secured the Temporary Palace, and the populace rejoiced for peace and stability.
Wen Rou, learning of Wen You’s death from Xiahou Ying at her pharmacy, was overcome with grief. She then rushed to the House Consort to inform Hua Yao. Hua Yao was happily planning a visit to the Qinhuai River Lantern Festival with Wen You and showed Wen Rou the mask she wore the last time they went. She even offered Wen Rou some clothes and a rattle for her baby, sent by her family.
Wen Rou, unable to contain her sorrow, began to cry. Hua Yao, sensing the gravity of the situation, pressed for answers, repeatedly asking if Wen You would return. With tearful confirmation that "Brother can't come back," Hua Yao collapsed in shock. She later died in childbirth after delivering a healthy baby boy, finally able to, as she had wished, see the lanterns with Wen You in the afterlife. With Wang Dun’s coup thwarted, the Xiao Empire gradually returned to peace.
The people of Jun'an learned through Wulin Rumors that Qiu An would temporarily serve as the Wulin director, and the Seven-star swordsmanship was now safeguarded at the Crowing Temple. Zhan Qinghong had relinquished her position as leader of the Zhan Family to her eldest apprentice, Huo Yang, and retired from the martial world with Lin Fang to live a free and happy life, with Lin Fang promising to follow her wherever she went.
Huo Yang, now head of the Zhan Family Manor, began recruiting new disciples, vowing to uphold its legacy. Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong bid farewell to Xiahou Ying and Wen Rou, wishing them a happy marriage. Wen Rou, however, stated that she would wait until after Wen You's mourning period before considering marriage. Eight years later, Xiahou Ying and Wen Rou were together. Xiao Lan diligently managed the Lin House.
Huo Yang, having recently won the Wulin assembly and secured the title of director, returned to the Lin House, where Xiao Lan initially thought he had lost and comforted him, assuring him that being her husband was enough. He then proudly revealed the Director's token, asking if she was satisfied with the title "Wife of the Director."
Xiao Lan, delighted, immediately wanted to share the good news with Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong, having heard through Wulin Rumors that they had returned to the Zhan Family Manor. Huo Yang intended to tell his master that he was too busy to manage the Zhan Family and wished to return the leadership to her. At the Zhan Family Manor, Lin Fang and Zhan Qinghong lived a peaceful life.
They had a daughter, Lin Ruoqing, and had adopted Wen You's son, Wen Zijin. Lin Ruoqing, mischievous and playful like a young Zhan Qinghong, was often seen with the gentle and compliant Wen Zijin. One day, Zhan Qinghong caught Lin Ruoqing attempting to take Wen Zijin to the back mountain to pick "icy orchids" instead of copying the "bolting swordsmanship." She was about to scold her daughter when Lin Fang intervened, allowing the children to go.
Zhan Qinghong complained to Lin Fang about spoiling the children, especially Lin Ruoqing. Lin Fang playfully retorted that it was because Lin Ruoqing was just like her. He then lovingly told her not to get angry, reminding her to consider their unborn child, Lin Ruoxuan, who he joked would surely take after him and cause no worries.
